Whether you loved or hated it, you probably have memories from summer camp that have lasted a lifetime. But for children with disabilities, taking part in your run-of-the-mill summer camp might not be feasible.
That’s part of the reason the week of June 5 is the "best week of the year" to children in Kansas with muscular dystrophy or neuromuscular diseases. It kicks off the MDA Summer Camp in Linwood at Tall Oak Conference Center.
“We’ve got zip lining, swimming, horseback riding. Our theme this year is the Olympics in Rio,” said Michelle Norman, the Kansas summer camp director.
She explained each camper is paired with a counselor for the week who helps them with whatever activities they choose to do.
“Many of these children would not be able to participate in 90 percent of the activities at a traditional summer camp. We don’t want anyone to be left out,” said Kara Evans, with the Muscular Dystrophy Association from Little Rock, Arkansas.
For some, the week is much more than activities.
“I love meeting new people and making friends,” explained Grant Rader.
Rader is from Wichita and said he has made several friends he sees year after year.
Cameron Wolf has been his counselor for three years.
“Sometimes he’s a handful but he does whatever he wants to, when he wants to do it,” laughed Wolf.
Rader told 41 Action News his muscular dystrophy has never held him back.
“I push through it. I always do something,” explained Rader.
Wolf said it’s been a humbling experience to watch him grow into a charismatic, sometimes spunky 12-year-old. He said on the last day, it’s always difficult to hold back.
"It’s emotional. There are a lot of tears. It's always happy tears because we are going to see them again,” said Wolf.
MDA staff said the goal is for campers to walk away from the week with fellowship and self-esteem that lasts the entire year.
“Nothing is going to stop me, my friends or family from doing the things in life they want to do," said Rader.
There are 87 children at the Kansas camp that is free to the families. It costs about $2,000 per camper, paid for by donations. If you would like to donate, you can visit the MDA website.
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Belinda Post can be reached at belinda.post@kshb.com.
