FULFILLING a lifetime dream of catching a wave with 11 times world surfing champion Kelly Slater has inspired Victoria Point surfer Kieron Douglass to write a children's book, which encouragse youngsters to follow their heart.
Kieron, 27, has written Little Ron and His Big Dream, and plans to donate all of the proceeds to the Mater Hospital's Little Miracles appeal.
"After years of attending the Gold Coast's Quicksilver Pro as a kid and a young adult, I unfortunately missed out each time I went to see him," he said.
Kieron, a professional photographer, said it wasn't until he was invited to a press conference to photograph and interview Kelly he realised was going to achieve his dream.
"Looking down the list of guest speakers, my mouth dropped. It took a day to pick it back up from the floor (when I realised) amongst some of the biggest names on that list was the king himself," he said.
Several weeks later Keiron was invited to head out for a surf with Kelly.
"I think it's really important for parents to help their kids chase their dream. Not only did I see my idol surf but witnessed him take the crown as the 2011 Quick- silver Pro Champ," he said.
"We have these children in hospital whose only dream is to see another day, so we really need to count ourselves lucky and live each day to the fullest," he said.
Kieron said the book would be released in a few months .
"(Little Ron and His Big Dream) is about an optimistic boy named Ron whose only dream is to meet his childhood hero 'the king of the ocean' Kelly Slater," he said.
"Ron takes us on a little adventure through the eyes of a seven-year-old as he proves following your dreams can not only take you on a big journey, but shows dreams really do come true with a little determination and heart."
To follow the journey of Little Ron and His Big Dream visit www.facebook.com/LittleRonAnd HisBigDream or, to purchase your own copy, email photography bykieron@live.com.au.
