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The Royal Caribbean FlowRider Girl - gone viral

batt01

By batt01,
in Royal Caribbean International

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batt01

batt01

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I wrote this story about our cruise on Freedom of the Seas on 1/17. It got quite a lot of shares, and later that day two executives from Royal Caribbean International called me directly to thank me for the story. Enjoy, it was a very special moment.

 

 

 

The Royal Caribbean FlowRider Girl

LEE ANNE BATTISTON·MONDAY, JANUARY 25, 2016583 Reads

 

 

While on Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas last week my daughter, Camille, observed people having fun on a surf simulator attraction called, “FlowRider”. She didn’t seem interested so we moved along to another activity. The next day, however, Camille declared that she wanted to surf! Once we determined that she meant that she wanted to try the FlowRider my husband, John, and I took her back up to the sports deck. We were a little hesitant, though - only because we were afraid that she would not be able to be successful in the time that they allowed each participant. But, we also did not want to say no. When we arrived we found two long lines of people waiting for their turn, along with an arena full of parents and spectators. As I signed her in, I mentioned to the attendant, whose name was Rojda, that our daughter had never done this before and that she has autism, and might need a little extra help and time. Rojda said to have her stand in line and that they would do what they could to help her. Knowing that simply standing in line is a huge challenge for Camille, I figured we were going to be turning around very quickly. However, as she stood in line, she became more and more excited, to the point that she was laughing uncontrollably and could hardly contain herself. Her joy/anxiety was very apparent to everyone in line and in the arena. During this time John ran to get Camille’s grandparents, so that they could watch in the case she actually was able to try.

 

 

Finally, when it was her turn, Rojda, appeared (as did her father and grandparents). Rojda gave Camille some verbal instructions, and John was nearby to help, but Camille simply could not get on the board. Camille was asked to step to the side and I figured her turn was over. However, Rojda talked to the other attendant and they began to reconfigure the FlowRider, removing the center divider and adjusting the flow of the water. This meant that both lines of people waiting were stopped while the adjustments were made - which took some time. Absolutely no one in line seemed to mind. Several ladies siting next to me commented on how they couldn’t believe, but were very thrilled by how hard the staff was working to help my daughter.

 

 

Everyone waiting with anticipation while adjustments are made...

Once set, they gave Camille her board back. As she attemted to lay her belly on the board over the flowing water the second attendant held her legs. Rojda got on another board and just as he let go of Camille’s legs, Rojda swooped along side Camille, firmly put her left arm around her - and they were off! Camille was “SURFING” with the biggest smile on her face. The crowd watching all began to cheer and the ladies sitting nearby were crying along with me. Camille and Rojda remained on the boards together for what seemed like a very long time until they moved to the edge and Camille gently stood up. Again - the crowd cheered even louder and with such enthusiasm, Camille ran to me and gave me the biggest hug and declared, “I’m the Winner!” Yes, Camille - you are!

During the remainder of the cruise we were stopped numerous times by passengers who told us that that moment was the highlight of their entire cruise and how thrilled they were that the Freedom of the Seas staff had taken the extra time to make one very special passenger so happy. One night after dinner we entered the elevator and the people in it declared, “Look, it’s the Flowrider Girl!”

Royal Caribbean was the first cruise line claiming to be “Autism Friendly” and the fact that staff members have the freedom to bend the rules is a testament to the crew, management and, I believe, the corporate culture of Freedom of the Seas and Royal Caribbean International.

At the end of the cruise we were sure to find Rojda - where we told her how much her actions had meant to us and we were able to properly thank her for a memory that we will always cherish.

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nativetexan

nativetexan

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Marvelous memories for every person that participated or watched. What a gift for the staff to be able to deliver that memory and for you to see your child succeed. I know Camille is very proud! What a treasure!!

 

Cheers and congrats to the Flowrider Girl!!

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Takeusawaynow

Takeusawaynow

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No need to cruise now; after reading this I am sitting in a pool of tears. We will be on Allure next week. I am 62 and thought i might give the '"FlowRider" a try but fear breaking something. If I get the courage I will do it in honour of Camille. Thanks for sharing. Kudos to Rojda and the RC staff.

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TXCruzing

TXCruzing

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This story should have come with a tissue warning. ;) Definitely made me cry.

 

My husband & I are going on a cruise alone in September for our 25th Anniversary, but we have also been contemplating taking a family cruise next year. The only problem is that my youngest child has Kabuki Syndrome, along with the many autistic-like behaviors that go along with it. We just weren't sure how she would be received on board. Your story gives me hope that it might be a very good experience for all of our children. Thanks so much for sharing!

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BLAMBKY

BLAMBKY

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Thank you for sharing, so happy that your family and those around you had such a sweet moment! I smiled remembering the same kindness shown on our first cruise on Freedom of the Seas.

 

Royal Caribbean....it is about taking the time to find just the right people. I think that you have done this, well done!

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BecciBoo Great Review Rare

BecciBoo

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It is always heart warming when people show their humanity by showing kindness to others. Makes you smile doesn't it.:)

 

God bless your family and your daughter. And hats off to Rojda and the Freedom staff.

 

Thanks for sharing.....sniff:o

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