MDA Camp

[happy_camper]

I was just wondering if anyone on here has ever worked at MDA camp? I'm interested in being a volunteer couselor at my local MDA camp this summer, and I was wondering if anyone has any insight to what the experience is like.
Thanks!

[prettysocks]

I think "Muscular Dystrophy Association".. Am I right? If I am, then no. But there's kids with MD at my camp!

[happy_camper]

Yes, it's Muscular Dystrophy Association

[prettysocks]

Well! I can tell you a bit of my experiences working with a few kids with MD, then!

For the most part, they are all hilarious kids, great senses of humour, and quite intelligent. Despite that their personal care may have been difficult or even painful for them at time, that they've been through surgeries and hospital stays, and that they may or may have not learned that they likely won't live past age 25 or so, none of them seemed to have a hatred towards life, or other people. It was admirable, and made them fantastic campers to have. Most of the kids with MD are in electric wheelchairs. For transferring from bed/chair/toilet/shower, they either use a "hoyer", 2-person lift, or a 1-person standing-pivot. (If you don't know what those are, and you're required to do them at camp, you will be taught, don't worry!).

Anyways.. that's all I can think of for now. Good luck, though.. and if you end up working there, I'm sure you would have the time of your life!

[happy_camper]

Thanks, prettysocks!

I'm glad to know it will be a good experience!

[LifeIsGood]

I have also never worked at an MDA camp but I have had kids with MD in my various programs. They have all been great. Just be ready to treat them like 'normal' kids, because they are! Your training will cover everything that you need to know, so my advice is only to enjoy the experience. You can find a way to modify everything and make campers successful in their environments. Camp is camp, just embrace it have fun and don't worry about disability. Kids with MD may have physical disabilities but cognitively they are just as sharp, witty, and able as you and me...just treat them like typical kids and you will be fine.

[prettysocks]

Fantastic input, LifeIsGood! Karma for you!