Camp No Limits, sponsored by the No Limits Foundation, is the only camp of its kind, specifically designed for young campers with limb loss and limb difference as well as for their family and friends. I was fortunate enough to be one of five MCPHS DPT students to take part at the Rome, Maine site from July 30th to August 4th this past summer.
I am sharing this experience because it was more than worthwhile, it was life-changing.
Every day began with group energizers. Here we shake, dance, and groove to music to get us ready for the full day ahead. Each day consisted of a PT/OT session, support groups, and of course free time.
Each day brought new activities and adventures. We assisted with a biking and running clinic, where children could try these activities using adaptive equipment and hands-on assistance. It was many of the kids first time running with running blades on.
My favorite camp moment was the afternoon of adaptive kayaking. I was paired up with a young camper who had lost both of his arms. I soon found out that he was there with his entire family and that they were Syrian refugees. He explained how he lost his arms just before coming to America. Maine Adaptive was able to set-up an adapted tandem kayak for us. He was able to use his prosthetic arms to assist me with paddling. I will never forget the smile on his face. He told me that he felt ‘free’ and that nothing can stop him now. I will forever remember his resilience and he will forever be an inspiration to me.
On the last day of camp we went around in a huge circle and said what our favorite part of the week was. I remember this was the most emotional part of camp. There was not a dry eye in the circle as the children reflected on their week at camp. One boy explained how this was the best week of his life because he did not get "stared at" and because he "fit in". Many families reflected that their kids just got to be kids. They were grateful for a week of non-judgement and no limits.
I highly recommend this experience to all DPT students, as well as current practicing physical therapists. This is a cause worth donating time for. I was able to learn so much and apply what I am learning in PT school.
I am sharing this experience because it was more than worthwhile, it was life-changing.
Every day began with group energizers. Here we shake, dance, and groove to music to get us ready for the full day ahead. Each day consisted of a PT/OT session, support groups, and of course free time.
Each day brought new activities and adventures. We assisted with a biking and running clinic, where children could try these activities using adaptive equipment and hands-on assistance. It was many of the kids first time running with running blades on.
My favorite camp moment was the afternoon of adaptive kayaking. I was paired up with a young camper who had lost both of his arms. I soon found out that he was there with his entire family and that they were Syrian refugees. He explained how he lost his arms just before coming to America. Maine Adaptive was able to set-up an adapted tandem kayak for us. He was able to use his prosthetic arms to assist me with paddling. I will never forget the smile on his face. He told me that he felt ‘free’ and that nothing can stop him now. I will forever remember his resilience and he will forever be an inspiration to me.
On the last day of camp we went around in a huge circle and said what our favorite part of the week was. I remember this was the most emotional part of camp. There was not a dry eye in the circle as the children reflected on their week at camp. One boy explained how this was the best week of his life because he did not get "stared at" and because he "fit in". Many families reflected that their kids just got to be kids. They were grateful for a week of non-judgement and no limits.
I highly recommend this experience to all DPT students, as well as current practicing physical therapists. This is a cause worth donating time for. I was able to learn so much and apply what I am learning in PT school.