Shriners Patients Take to the Slopes

by Erin Jurkovich

On Saturday, February 1, physical challenges did not stop nine patients, ages 5-11, from Shriners Hospital for ChildrenCTwin Cities from enjoying outdoor fun during Winter Camp Achieve.  Shriners sponsored the camp, a special day designed for children with limb deficiencies.  At Camp Achieve, patients had the chance to enjoy the king of cold weather sportsCdownhill skiingCand once back at the hospital, got the chance to splash in the in-house pool and enjoy a sleepover.

Through hard work and hours of physical and occupational therapy, these kids have learned to use prostheses (artificial limbs) to accomplish everyday activities.  But during Winter Camp Achieve, they pushed their skills even further in a fun and supportive environment.

Downhill skiing was made possible for these kids through the use of adaptive ski equipment that was provided by Courage Center.  Two of the campers wore a bi-ski, which is adaptive ski equipment for double leg amputees.  Several other campers hit the slopes utilizing the three-track ski system, commonly used by single leg amputees.  Others were able to wear their prostheses while using regular skis.  Whatever the type of ski used, all of the Winter Camp Achieve participants were skiing independently with ease.

ACamp Achieve is designed to encourage children with limb deficiencies to participate in sports and hobbies just like their peers.  By creating an environment that is welcoming and fun, these children learn that they can do anything they put their mind to,@ stated Maureen Johnston,Shriners Hospital=s Child Life Manager.

Winter Camp Achieve was the second camp sponsored by Shriners and was preceded by Summer Camp Achieve, held in June 2002.  During the summer version, 11 prosthetic patients participated in a weeklong camp, which included rock climbing, horseback riding, and swimming.  AOur goal is to provide year-round recreational opportunities for our kids so that they feel comfortable with their bodies and are not afraid to try activities they might not feel comfortable doing with their friends at home,@ commented Barb Knudson, occupational therapist.

Shriners Hospitals for ChildrenCTwin Cities is a 40-bed pediatric orthopedic hospital that provides comprehensive orthopedic care to children at no charge.  The hospital opened in 1923 and covers one of the largest geographic areas of any Shriners Hospital, serving children from seven Midwestern states and three Canadian provinces.  The Twin Cities hospital is one of 22 Shriners Hospitals throughout North America.

Shriners Hospital plans to sponsor its third Camp Achieve this summer.  For more information about Shriners and its Camp Achieve program, please call 612-596-6100 or visit www.shrinershq.org.

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Last updated on March 13, 2003
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