Sports Camp for Wheelies - Week of July 27th

“The power of the group: we all want to feel a sense of belonging. This isn't a character flaw. It's fundamental to the human experience.” ~Rosalind Wiseman

Monday marked the start of Sports Camp for Cam.  It also signified the last year he could participate due to his age.

Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital's Jr. Wheelchair Sports Camp is one of the longest running adaptive sports camp in the United States and has been a major part of the Grand Rapids community for more than four decades! The camp is hosted at Grand Valley State University and allows kids age 7-18 to participate.  Campers engage in activities such as wheelchair basketball, tennis, handcycling, kayaking, lacrosse, pickleball and other adaptive sports.

The Mary Free Bed (MFB) photographers are there all week to snap pictures and post them in an online gallery...we appreciate this so very much!  

Tuesday was Cam's kayaking day.  His favorite nurse, Morgan, accompanied him on the journey around the lake.

The group picture was taken on Wednesday.  Cam's parents attended their first concert at the new Acrisure Amphitheater. Chris surprised Jane with VIP seats and they both highly recommend the experience!

Thursday is one of the best days for the "wheelies" because the Allendale Fire Department arrives in the afternoon.  A water fight ensues between the firemen and firewomen as everyone gets completely drenched!  Thankfully, it was a beautiful day with sunshine in full force.

Friday marked the final day for the Sports Camp.  After morning activities, a luncheon followed by a short ceremony and award certificates closed out the successful week.  Although Cameron knows it was his final session, he was happy for the opportunity to be a part of it all.

Friday evening, our family was at the cottage together until Saturday afternoon. The weather wasn't too cooperative during our stay.  Cam's grandma and mom were able to enjoy a nice sunset together Thursday evening.

For our early Sunday dinner, we met up with our good friends, Matt and Jill.  Cam had never been to Pietro's and it is a local Italian favorite in Grand Rapids.  He especially enjoyed the warm homemade bread that was brought to the table immediately and complemented with olive oil and spices for dipping.  Any time food is presented asap, the rating rises accordingly for Cam!

Camology Quotes:

Cam will typically take note of the cost of the things. During a recent shopping trip to Costco, there was a gigantic Guess Who game.  He noticed the high price associated and commented to his dad:

"Um, that is a bit extreme!"