While traveling on the professional surfing tour, Sandy had formed friendships with surfers from around the world. One of those friendships would eventually shape the next chapter of her life.

At sixteen years old, Sandy Ordille stood quietly beside a van in a parking lot while everyone else prepared for the long drive back to New Jersey. The East Coast Championships had come to an end. Surfboards were strapped to roof racks. Friends exchanged hugs and promised to see one another at the next contest. For the first time, her older brother wasn't there.

Meet Erin Brennan, an Encinitas-based writer for Local Break Surf Magazine whose passion for surf, wellness, food, and community brings North County’s stories to life.