While Cody discovered Easter Seals camp later than most, it hasn’t stopped him from gaining a collection of lasting memories full of camp magic.
“Having a bit of independence that he doesn’t normally have, to be responsible for himself, and to have new experiences.” These are some of the benefits 36-year-old camper Cody experienced when he attended Easter Seals Camp Merrywood this past summer.
Cody has an uncommon camper story. He and his family lived overseas for 20 years and only returned to Canada a few years ago. So he has only experienced Easter Seals camp as an adult. Since moving back, it has been difficult for Cody to become fully integrated into his community, especially with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Thankfully, his family discovered the Easter Seals Voyager Camp program that offers accessible and inclusive camping and recreation for young adults up to 36 years olds.
“Having a bit of independence that he doesn’t normally have, to be responsible for himself, and to have new experiences.”
“For 20 years he really had nothing, so it was pretty incredible for us,” Karen, Cody’s mom shares about the experience. “The first year he went, we weren’t sure if he was going to like it,” Karen continues. “But when we picked him up and asked him how his experience was on a scale of 1 to 10, he said 11 both years.”
Cody has attended Camp Merrywood near Perth, Ontario both in 2022 and 2023. During these sessions, he has had the chance to try out many accessible and inclusive activities, some for the first time. His favourites have been sailing, swimming, canoeing, archery, and campfires. But the absolute best part about camp for Cody is the social interaction; simply hanging out with the other campers and counsellors.
Your support will help ensure more campers like Cody have the opportunity to attend a fully accessible Easter Seals camp.
Cody has cerebral palsy which can make verbal communication and connecting with his peers difficult. But the counsellors at Merrywood go above and beyond to make Cody feel welcome and included in the fun. While all of the staff are great, Cody indicated that there are a few counsellors who he remembers and he had a special connection with.
While Cody discovered Easter Seals camp later than most, it hasn’t stopped him from gaining a collection of lasting memories full of camp magic. “He talks about camp for two months before he goes, and he talks about it for two months after he comes back,” Karen explains warmly. “It’s definitely the highlight of the summer!”
“He talks about camp for two months before he goes, and he talks about it for two months after he comes back… It’s definitely the highlight of the summer!”
When asked what advice he might have for those thinking about giving Easter Seals camp a try, Cody shared: “Take a chance!”
Cody’s enduring enthusiasm and the lasting memories he has collected in 2022 and 2023 attest to the timeless joy and camaraderie that camp offers. His journey serves as a heartfelt reminder that camp isn’t just for kids—it’s a place where treasured moments are made, connections are formed, and the spirit of adventure never fades.