It's No Rumor, He's a Junior - Week of Aug. 19th

"The only disability in life is a bad attitude." ~Scott Hamilton

When Cam's parents were in school, they never started back prior to Labor Day.  It still seems strange for Cameron to be back in session in August.  We did manage to squeak in two more fun-filled days of summer break prior to Wednesday.

Ms. Ann arrived on Monday for tutoring with Cam.  She also brought him a cool bday present.  The birthday t-shirt read "My Ability is Stronger than My Disability" and Cameron really loved it!

Tuesday was the final hot dog stand stint for Cameron this season.  Jane brought her son to the Brody Be Cafe location.  It was a busy afternoon with a nice, cool breeze.  

Cam was in charge of the chips.  He provides the choices to customers and assists with the removal of the potato chip bags.  Interacting with people is such a positive aspect.

Oma and Auntie Karen arrived in time for lunch.  They had not seen Cam in working form before, so they were both excited to be there and to order up their noon meal.

One advantage to working the afternoon timeframe is the ability to choose which eating option may be best.  Cam decided on a Chick-Fil-A chicken sandwich and chips.  Brody also showed up to say hello and Cam's dad made it over right before the end of his son's shift.

Wednesday was Cam's first day of 11th grade!  It's hard to believe he is already halfway through high school.  The most exciting news Tuesday evening was that Cameron's bus pick up was changed to 7:05am.  Previously it was 6:30am!  Our family was all smiles.  The morning was cooler, but it warmed up quickly.  

We were in for another surprise that afternoon.  The bus driver dropped off Cam right at the very top of the driveway.  We've only had that happen one other time.  

Thursday evening, Chris and Jane attended their last outdoor summer concert while Ms. Ann hung out with Cam.

Saturday afternoon, we ventured to the cottage. Our cousins from Philadelphia and New Jersey were there so it was an extra fun-filled day.  Our friends Molly and Jude also joined our crew with their baby boy.

It was a sunny beach day and the kids all made it fun.  We ate dinner on the outdoor deck.  Chris had been golfing with all of the guys and they arrived after dessert.

The young cousins all helped to secure Cam in the van after sunset.  Cousin Avery told him she would see him the next day.  We told her that may not be possible due to other things. She looked at her older cousin and said "Ok, Cameron, I'll see you tomorrow then!" 

Camology Quotes:

It's pretty cool to watch Cam hold his own with the jokes these days.  During his bedtime routine, Jane was assisting with a task and her son said:

"Mom, you are so kind and sweet."

At that moment, Chris accidentally put a towel on Cam's face, to which he immediately responded:

"But you're a different story, Dad!"

No Way Am I Seventeen! - Week of Aug. 12th

"A 17-year-old male is typically in a transitional phase, moving from adolescence to young adulthood. This stage is characterized by rapid physical growth, evolving cognitive abilities, emotional development, and a stronger focus on independence and self-identity." ~Chat GPT (Artificial Intelligence response)

As we inched closer to Cameron's birthday, we were also approaching mid-August.  Both facts seemed hard to believe.  Monday afternoon, we had a scheduled appointment at Mary Free Bed for Cam's baclofen pump clinic.  

He was nervous since it was the first appointment for the drain and refill.  Nurse Marcia, who we've known for many years, had explained what would happen.  She also told Cameron that the numbing cream they use lessens any pain he might feel.  Ironically, our patient felt nothing at all and laughed after it was all over, indicating how easy the process was.

Tuesday was a working day for Cam and Ms. Ann joined him to hang out at the hot dog cart.  The adjacent farmer's market was busy.  Jane stopped by on a quick work break to see her son in action and to purchase some fresh farm vegetables.  

We picked up Oma on Friday to stay with us for Cameron's birthday celebration over the weekend.  Even though Cam is older, we still like to read in the evenings.  It is a nice break and a reminder to slow down.  Jane's mom rediscovered a book from her grandson's childhood that she requested to read that evening.  Cam happily agreed and they both had forgotten how much fun the story was.

When Cameron woke up on Saturday, he declared that he couldn't believe he was 17!  

Unbeknownst to Jane, Chris had quietly snuck out of the house and driven to one of his son's favorite breakfast spots to pick up a bday meal.  However, when he arrived home, Cam had just finished his morning meal and we all had a good laugh.  Luckily, leftovers are king in our house and the breakfast was enjoyed by the birthday kid over the next two morning meals.  

Gifts from Oma included new sandals and a book along with a cash gift that Opa wanted him to have.  From his parents, Cam received some gift cards and a replacement iPad for his cracked one.  He was so excited and got busy setting right away setting it up!  

After an early lunch, we were all on our way for birthday adventures.  Our destination was Pentwater, which was almost 90 minutes from our house.  Cameron had never been there and we wanted him to experience something different.  The Cosmic Candy Company, home of Pentwater Popcorn was our first stop.  The nostalgic treat shop had endless choices and some popcorn samples.  Cam gravitated toward the homemade chocolate items showcased in the glass enclosure.  After making some tough choices, we left with some tasty popcorn and chocolate goodness.  

Next, we were on way the store right next door.  The Sun and Beach shop is a childhood favorite of Jane's.  First, you pick out a shirt and then you choose what goes on it.  Cam decided on "Great Lakes Great Times" for one and Pentwater, MI for the other.  Oma, Cam and his dad exited the store while Jane chose a couple of items.  The store owner told Jane that her son made an excellent choice, as noted by two teenage girls who chose the exact same pattern as Cam.  After exploring the town a bit more, we made our way back to the van.  We took the scenic route to Rothbury.  

Dinner reservations awaited us at the Sundance Saloon and Grill located at the Double JJ Resort.  It was an inaugural experience for Cam, his parents and grandma.  We were seated overlooking the golf course and the view was beautiful.  Cousins met us there and we began our meal with tasty appetizers.  The birthday kid chose fish and chips for his din and even had leftovers.

Jane surprised her son by secretly transporting bday cupcakes from a favorite bakery, Rykes.  The wait staff sang "Happy Birthday" and even put a candle in one of the cupcakes!  The two flavor choices of chocolate peanut butter and chocolate mint were quickly dispersed.

We thanked the restaurant staff for their kindness and promised a rave review online.  Chris made all the kids laugh when he pretended to take a nap in the van, blocking Cam's entrance.  As always, the youngest cousins helped buckle Cameron in, making certain he was safe for the trip back to Grand Rapids.  Oma kept her grandson company during the drive as they chatted about the day's events.

We had one last surprise upon arrival home.  A dear friend of Jane's who is a colleague and lives out east sent a package for Cam.  Since it arrived on his actual birthday and even though it was late, he still wanted to open it.  Three items were contained within... a Red Lobster gift card, a Detroit Lions shirt and an engraved men's bracelet. "Sometimes You Forget You're Awesome So This is Your Reminder."  Cameron commented how special the message was and what a great birthday it had been!

Camology Quotes:

We were telling Cam that he may be seeing someone he hadn't seen in quite a few years.  The person's name was Bill.  Cameron kept saying he didn't know who it was and we were reminding him about a time he had been at our home.  Cam responded with:

"It doesn't ring a bill!  I mean, bell!"

Love and Support Incoming - Week of Aug. 5th

"Memory is a way of holding on to the things you love, the things you are, the things you never want to lose." ~from The Wonder Years

We received many messages, cards, flowers and an edible arrangement (thx A.J.!) in honor of Opa.  Cameron talked about his grandfather quite a bit.  Every holiday, whenever a turkey was on the menu, Cam and his grandpa would make the stuffing together, as was their tradition.

Keeping busy helped move things along this week.

An unexpected surprise occurred on Wednesday for Cam.  One of his former nannies, Ms. Michelle, dropped by for a visit.  She was excited to see Cameron and brought us a beautiful flower as well as a bracelet from Guatemala, where she had been on a mission trip.  The picture features three of Cam's caregivers!

Thursday was a big day for Brody's Be Cafe.  A new location is soon opening in East Grand Rapids called Gaslight Be Cafe.  We were invited to attend the "thank you" gathering.  A mutual friend, Ms. Susan, was a consultant for the new cafe project to ensure that the space was handicap accessible, since she is hopeful that Cam will work there one day.  

It was super easy for him to get behind the counter and he couldn't believe how much space there was to turn around!  Even the restroom was super spacious.  As an added bonus, a very famous ice cream parlor, Jersey Junction, is located right next door.  Jersey Junction was established in 1963 by Doris VanAllsburg.  Her son, Chris VanAllsburg, is a famous author and he wrote "The Polar Express."

Thursday was also Ms. Amanda's last "summer" day for hanging out with Cam.  As a kindergarten teacher, she was scheduled for meetings and setting up her classroom. 

Cameron was sporting green tape on his arms this week known as kinesio tape or KT.  The tape is a flexible material used by physical therapists and occupational therapists to help with motion.  In Cam's case, the kinesio promotes use of his arms for using utensils and other items.

Chris and Jane celebrated their 21st wedding anniversary on Friday, while Cam and Ms. Ann watched a cool documentary together called "Young Woman and the Sea" about the first woman who swam across the English Channel.

Saturday was a bit cooler for a beach day but we were determined to make the best of it.  The sun peeked out a bit from behind the clouds throughout the afternoon.  We also enjoyed an outdoor grilling fiesta of Mac's Meats brats, hot dogs and the first farm-fresh Michigan sweet corn of the season.

We all agreed that the tasty vegetable picked from the stalk is very appropriately named since its sweetness is found in every delicious bite!

Camology Quotes:

We know Cam picks up different phrases from a variety of places.  However, we are still surprised at times by his choice of words.  He was calling his parents one morning and since they were in different parts of the house, they didn't hear him right away.  When they arrived at the door of his room, Cam exclaimed:

"I'm sorry I made such a ruckus!"

It's So Hard to Say Goodbye - Week of July 29th

"And I'll take with me the memories..To be my sunshine after the rain...It's so hard to say goodbye to yesterday." ~Boyz II Men

It's not too often we are able to enjoy a fun outing on a weekday.  With our North Carolina friends at the cottage through Friday, the Weatherford fam headed to Montague late Tuesday afternoon.  The warm sunshine welcomed us.  Cameron was wearing kinesio tape, provided by his OT, to help his muscle activation in his forearms.

Chris was in charge of grilling the perfect summer picnic at Coco's.  Brats, hot dogs and sweet corn filled the entire cooking surface.  The local Mac's Meats homemade brats were exceptional and somehow taste the best eaten outdoors. Our cookout was a big success with contributions from everyone. It was a evening filled with laughs and togetherness.

Leslie's kids, Erin and Ali and Ali's finance Daree, left Thursday morning.  Leslie and Wes stayed in Grand Rapids with Cam, Chris and Jane Friday evening.

Cam was back into his therapy routine at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital this week.  Monday, Wednesday and Friday with back to back occupational and physical therapy sessions have been keeping him very busy.  He is also steadily regaining strength and new skills since the baclofen pump surgery. He is so excited to be practicing standing solo with his therapists.  Big smiles and laughter typically follow each accomplishment.

We said goodbye to Leslie and Wes Saturday morning and Jane headed to Grand Haven to spend the day with Oma and Opa.  Opa's health was in decline and a hospital bed was brought into their apartment on Thursday to keep him comfortable.

Jane told Opa that his buddy, Cam, was thinking about him.

Oma and Jane were very surprised when Opa passed away on Saturday.  They were both there and he was peaceful.  Jane asked Oma to come back to Grand Rapids with her.  As they drove, they talked about how difficult it would be to tell Cam.

Cameron has an empathetic soul.  He thinks of others and is conscientious.  When Jane shared that Opa had passed, he was very upset.  He's the only grandpa Cameron has ever known. 

Whenever Opa would see Cam, he would always say "how's my buddy?" And Cam would almost always answer with "Good Opa, and how are you?"  It's such a simple greeting but one that was their routine.  

In the spring, Opa attended a West Miracle League game of Cameron's.  Aunt Betsy and Uncle Jon brought Oma and Opa from Grand Haven.  Aunt Betsy commented to Jane that Opa truly seemed to light up when he first saw Cam that day.  

When Cameron was little, he had a tough time saying Grandma and Grandpa, so Oma and Opa became the norm.  The nicknames have remained.  Rest easy, Opa, we know you are now at peace.

Camology Quotes:

Even while arguing, Cam still has the ability to remain polite.

"Mom, I beg to differ."

Wheelchair Sports Camp - Week of July 22nd

Summer Camp: "Where every challenge is an invitation to grow, and every activity, a chance to glow."

Since Cameron's extended hospital stay canceled one of his planned camps, he was relieved that Wheelchair Sports Camp was still on the agenda for this week. 

Wheelchair adaptive sports, also known as adaptive sports or parasports, are sports that have been modified to allow individuals with physical disabilities to participate. Wheelchair adaptive sports can be beneficial for individuals with physical disabilities in a number of ways, and Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital strongly supports wheelchair adaptive sports. They can help improve physical fitness, strength, and coordination. 

They can also provide a sense of achievement, boost self-esteem and confidence, and promote socialization and a sense of community. These sports are designed to be inclusive and provide the same level of competition and enjoyment for individuals using wheelchairs as for those who do not.  Mary Free Bed Wheelchair and Adaptive Sports is one of the largest programs of its kind in the United States. This was the 40th year anniversary, so the camp shirts were extra special with a new logo.

The 7-18 year old kids are divided up into groups based on age brackets.  Monday through Thursday, a packed schedule is followed beginning at 8am and ending at 4pm daily.

Cameron was assigned to Group A and a longtime friend, April, was right by his side.  A nurse they both met last year, Ms. Morgan, was dedicated to their band of older teens.  

Each day, a different sport was associated with every hour.  

Monday included cycling, dodgeball, lacrosse, basketball and handball.  

Tuesday's agenda was dodgeball, pickleball, basketball and softball.  Cam had to forgo kayaking that day due to his surgery.  

The line-up for Wednesday: basketball, tennis, cycling, football and team handball.  

Thursday rounded things out with a day of tennis, team handball, cycling, basketball and softball.  Then, the last thirty minutes of the afternoon was spent with the Allendale Fire Department.  The annual event focuses on two fire trucks dispersing hundreds of gallons of water onto the attendees.  It was such a warm day, the refreshing coolness made everyone smile.

Cam experienced some personal challenges during the week, learning to use his arms and hands in different ways with his baclofen pump.  He persevered with the help of his friends and Ms. Morgan and definitely felt successful by the end of his time spent there.

Friday morning, tennis, dodgeball and basketball were all in full rotation.  Parents were invited for the certificate ceremony that took place after lunch.  Chris and Jane were both in attendance.  It was so interesting to hear the history from 40 years ago and the trailblazers who launched the Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp.  Cam already requested a reservation for next year's session.

Saturday evening, we welcomed our dear friends we call family from North Carolina.  Jane's lifelong friend, Leslie and her husband Wes, along with daughters Erin, Ali and Ali's fiance, Daree were renting our family cottage for the next week. 

After breakfast on Sunday, multiple vehicles made their way to Montague.  We enjoyed a picnic lunch with our cousins and made our way down to the beach.  Cam was in his beach chair for the very first time this summer.  Although he couldn't fully submerge in the lake yet, it wasn't too much of a loss based on the cooler water temp.  The North Carolina crew couldn't believe how much beach there was.

The Weatherford fam had to depart earlier than usual that late afternoon.  Chris and Jane were headed to an outdoor concert at the Meijer Gardens.  Cam's directive took him to Culver's for a tasty dinner pick-up and hang out time with Ms. Kaylee.

It was a big week for Cameron and by Sunday night, he was very ready for an earlier than normal respite!

Camology Quotes:

Cam's surgical implant has created many benefits.  It has, however, led to a bit of frustration due to the change of his muscle tone.  Using the cycle at sports camp this year was much different from last summer. The first day he tried cycling, he felt like he was going to fall off the bike.  He was determined, though, and after multiple practice sessions, by the end of the week, he conquered it. 

"Mom, did Ms. Morgan send you the video? I did it!"

Packing It In - Week of July 15th

 "Time is a circus, always packing up and moving away." ~Ben Hecht

When people visit that you don't see as frequently as you'd like, do you feel the need to attempt too many activities?  We've learned our lesson, somewhat, in that regard.  

Our simple challenge is to create events that include a busy day, followed by a more restful day.  It allows the energy level to remain intact and those <18 to continue to feel entertained.

The first weekday of "Grandma Sue and Layna time" was spent doing our own thing.  Cam was at rehab for PT and OT while Jane and Grandma Sue were off to visit Oma and Opa. Layna went swimming with Ms. Amanda's nieces and nephews in the late afternoon and Cam and his dad had some quality time together.

Tuesday's schedule included Brody's Be Café for a couple of hours to see Cam in action to assist with the hot dog cart. The farmer's market, adjacent to the café in the summer months, was busy and Cameron saw his high school teachers.  Layna loved helping too and seeing Ms. Amanda.  Snack time back at the house is more fun with a cousin.

Following our simple challenge, Wednesday was a more restful day, playing games at home.  Cam had his therapy time, while Layna and her Aunt Jane were off to have their annual pedicure together.  Grandma Sue caught up on some reading.  It was our last day with Ms. Amanda that week, so Layna and G. Sue said goodbye.  Our evening dinners at home were a treat with everyone pitching in to help.

Thursday was our baking day!  Cam and his mom taught Grandma Sue and Jalayna how to make homemade applesauce and apple pie.  Multiple batches of applesauce were completed.  We also finished 6 mini pies and 2 full pies to freeze.
During our breaks, we played some games.  Guess in 5 is one of our new favorites.  On a card is a picture of an animal and the other player can only ask 5 questions in a effort to determine which creature is shown on the card.

Friday was our divide and conquer/finish together day.  It was a working day for Cameron and he was scheduled for 2 Grand Valley University sessions.  The graduate PT students were ready to learn and Cam was eager to teach them about his new baclofen pump and how things had changed for him.  And it turned out that one of PT students was a family member of the apple orchard owners where the "hard to find" early transparent apples were from.  Sierra's parents own G's Orchard in Wayland and she was one of the students that Cam had the pleasure of working with.  During that same timeframe, Chris and his niece were on their way to SkyZone, the indoor trampoline park.  Grandma Sue found it very relaxing to sit on the front porch swing.  That evening, we dined outside at a local favorite, Cascade Roadhouse.  Cam and his cousin Layna both chose the chicken tenders and their grandma decided to try to lake perch.  Everyone enjoyed their dinner.

Saturday was our final full day together.  After an early lunch in Grand Rapids, we made our way to Montague to see our cousins and be near the lake.  Cam isn't able to be fully immersed in the lake water yet due to his surgery.  He and Grandma Sue had some big laughs relaxing under the beach umbrella on the lower deck.  We brought dinner, along with the homemade applesauce and apple pie that we had made just two days prior.  Everyone declared both offerings were most delicious!

Sunday morning, it was time to say our goodbyes/see you later to Cam's grandma and cousin.  Since our visits are more frequent now, it's not as traumatic as the first few times.  It's still tough, though, to pick a favorite moment or activity.  It seems that we all simply enjoy being together.

Camology Quotes:

With the upcoming world games on the horizon, Cameron is thinking about the future.  Cam is super impressed by his cousin's skills.  

While she was showing him one of her stretches, he declared: 

"Layna, I think you should be in the Olympics because you are the most flexible person I have ever known!"