17 MIN | 2025 | DIRECTOR: CHRISTOPH GELFAND / CAROLINE LOSNECK | PRODUCER: SACHI CUNNINGHAM / CAROLINE LOSNECK / CHRISTOPH GELFAND | UNITED STATES | BYRON PREMIERE

Aaron Paulk has found a way to navigate uncertainty - but this time, the path forward is less clear than ever.

Years after being diagnosed with a progressive eye disorder that might one day lead to blindness, that forces him to abandon his dream of becoming a Navy SEAL, Aaron has become a top visually impaired competitive surfer. He has no central vision, only peripheral vision, and he uses his other senses to surf and navigate around Lahaina Maui where he lives.

He navigates the waves with precision and purpose. He’s charted a new life course, and it may someday even qualify to participate in the Paralympics, should surfing be included as a category. But he’s also found support and camaraderie among other para surfers, the competitive surfing events, and a larger community that fosters resilience and understanding.

Yet, on land, he grapples with what he calls an “invisible disability” a severe visual impairment that no one can see, unless he shares it.

When the massive wildfires devastate Lahaina, Maui in August 2023, the life Aaron has carefully built for himself is upended once again. Waves of uncertainty hit. Many people have died. The ocean is toxic from the debris.He’s not sure when, or how, or where he’ll even surf again. But for Aaron, surfing isn’t just about competition- it’s about connection, healing, and community.

Now, in the wake of the wildfire that destroyed his home and reduced his home, city, and routines to ash, the ocean remains his refuge. It’s the only place he can embrace and understand life's uncertainties.

Screens with BEYOND THE BREAK