Although camp was cancelled in 2009, I returned last summer for another great experience. I got the hardest week of my life. When I no longer had an interest in meeting Jesuit boys and socializing with classmates, the campers were my main focus. I led a cabin of 8 boys under the age of 10, which gives me a great appreciation for Kate Gosselin and the Duggars. There are a lot of conflicts, health concerns, and homesickness that made for extremely trying days. But of course, every boy had such an amazing and unique personality that was so much fun to be around. This time around, I took extra time to talk to each camper in my cabin and make sure he was having the best week of his life. They made the hardest week of my life one of the most memorable ones.
Muscular Dystrophy Association, also known as Jerry's Kids, is truly a wonderful organization. The staff cares about every individual camper and counselor, ensuring that MDA camp is a safe and enjoyable experience for the kids who deserve it the most. The campers all have a physical disability, but none of them let it define them. They have so much to share about themselves and teach you about yourself. I do not look upon the campers with pity, but with love and admiration.
I am not going back to MDA camp to help others. I am going for a selfish reason. I fell in love with the campers and cannot wait to spend more time with them. It has nothing to do with disabilities or self-promotion. Just love.
MDA is in many locations across the country and definitely has a camp near you. It is one week of your summer, and it won't be easy- but it will definitely be rewarding. Click here to find an office near you and ask out how you can attend camp. But act quickly- the deadline is close! Ask me about the Sacramento camp (and there's one in Santa Cruz, too!).
