Camp Circle O' Friends: Bringing Hope To Children And Families

Cancer is a devastating illness that can take its toll on families. And when the patients are young children, aside from suffering the pain that comes with cancer, many have less of a chance to be the children they ought to be because the illness makes them more fragile. But even kids with cancer should have time to play and enjoy themselves, according to Ann Schulman, an oncology nurse and visionary of Camp Circle O' Friends.

And that is the very reason Camp Circle O' Friends has been around since 1987 - to provide children with cancer, as well as their brothers and sisters, the chance to experience the fun of a summer camp. With kids at camp, parents can get a well-deserved break to recuperate without having to worry that their children aren't well cared for.

Image source: campcircleoffriends.com

Located along the shores of Last Mountain Lake's Arlington Beach, the camp is a safe place where the children whose lives have been affected by cancer can enjoy indoor and outdoor activities like crafting, sports, sing-a-longs, and variety shows. It's also a great place to commune with nature where kids can forget their worries and just enjoy the outdoors.

That said, to make sure that the children are in good condition, especially those who have cancer, Camp Circle O' Friends has a dedicated medical team who have the skills to attend to the campers' medical needs. Additionally, lots of volunteers serve as camp staff to help out in ensuring that the camp experience is safe and fun.

Image source: reginaprogress.com

Camp Circle O' Friends aims to be a respite for families touched by cancer so that members can enjoy themselves and experience some moments of normalcy amidst the challenges of cancer.

Jay Blackmore is a committed member of the Canadian Progress Club which holds Camp Circle O' Friends every summer for children afflicted with cancer. Subscribe to this blog for articles on volunteerism and community development.

Heartwarming Stories From Athletes Who Joined The Special Olympics

Image source: Cbs.com

The Special Olympics is a grand sporting event for over thousands of athletes around the world who have intellectual disabilities, including Down syndrome and fetal alcohol syndrome. Participants can exhibit their athletic prowess in 25 events such as triathlon, speed skating, football, and judo. Just like every sporting spectacle, it is a place for inspiring stories. Here are some of the Special Olympics’ most inspiring athletes:

Tim Harris: President Barack Obama’s encourager

At a White House event, President Obama gave a shout-out to the multi-talented athlete. The basketball, volleyball, poly hockey, and track and field player is also an entrepreneur. Upon hearing his name, Tim went up the stage and hugged the president. The president commended that just like everyone else, he also needed a hug from a great guy like Tim.

Chelsea Werner: The gymnast who would not give up

As a child, Chelsea had low muscle tone and was immobile until she was four. Gymnastics became a way to strengthen her body. When she decided to compete, she was usually placed at the bottom. Even worse, the Special Olympics Committee of Northern California closed down its gymnastics program. This meant training on her own for 16 hours a week before she began winning national titles and dominating her solo event at the Special Olympics.

Jamaal Charles: An American football legend in the making

Image source: Dailymail.co.uk

The Kansas City Chiefs running back discovered his talent when he joined the Special Olympics at age 10. Suffering from a learning disability, he proved people that he could go the distance by participating at a track and field event that gave him his first gold medal. His time at the Special Olympics gave him confidence and encouraged him to pursue what he’s excellent in.

The Special Olympics is an example that disabilities are not a hindrance to success. These inspiring people are continuing to change the world with their passion and dedication.

Jay Blackmore is the COO of Park Capital Management. As a philanthropist, he is also invested in making the community a better place through the Regina Canada Progress Club, which supports the Special Olympics. Follow Twitter account for similar updates.