Out of everything that I've done this summer, my absolute favorite memory that I will cherish for the rest of my life was volunteering as a camp counselor at Camp Spike 'N Wave. This is a camp for kids aged 8 to 14 living with epilepsy. The campsite, Camp For All in Burton, TX, holds week long camps all summer for kids with various disabilities, illnesses, and hardships.
As a first-timer to really any kind of summer camp, I was anxious and a bit nervous about what to expect. The first day I arrived was a training day for all of the counselors which included seizure first-aid as well as bonding and team building activities among the entire staff. Arrival of the 100-something campers quickly approached where I met my cabin made up of 9 eleven-year-old girls. They were so shy and timid at first but I knew that would quickly change. Every day was filled with early wake up calls to loud music, amazing food, multiple trips to the MedStaff room for medicine, singing loudly everywhere we went, and awesome camp activities. Our days were packed with fun events like water day, a ropes course, horseback riding, canoeing, a camp dance, a talent show, a casino night, and a pool party, to name a few!
The most amazing thing about camp was watching my campers blossom and make so many friends. This is the only place in the world where they can go and feel extremely normal since everyone there is also dealing with epilepsy. Having seizures at camp is no big deal, whereas having one at school or anywhere else in public might be a little frightening. At camp, every one can do everything, despite any challenges or obstacles one might face. The last day quickly approached, leaving me with many tears, 9 newly acquired little sisters, and a new outlook on life. I was truly blessed to a part of such a life-changing week.
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