“You were able to do everything, feel normal again,” said Kari.
Kari’s journey with True Friends Camp Courage began in 2018 when she first learned about Camp Courage through the local fundraiser, “Tee it Up for Campers” in Alden, Minnesota. Each year, the golf fundraiser raises money to ensure campers can experience the joy of Camp Courage. Since then, for five consecutive years, Kari has attended Camp Courage’s Adult Physical Disabilities (PD) session, finding a sense of belonging and life-changing experience that keeps her coming back.
The thought of being able to do everything and find a place to belong at camp got Kari excited. “What made me want to try Camp was the way it was described. I would be able to do everything, feel normal again, and not be left out of anything.” The opportunity to do “any activity you want” at Camp Courage is a feeling that individuals with disabilities are not always able to experience. As Kari said, “It [camp] makes you feel like you’re a person again.”
Kari petting sheep at the Therapy and Adaptive Riding Barn, one of her favorite places at Camp Courage
Camp Courage breaks down barriers for people with physical disabilities, offering the freedom and empowerment to try new activities. “When I first got here, I just thought, I’ve never seen so many power chairs in one spot before!” Kari said.
At first, Kari was nervous to meet so many new people with various disabilities, but she quickly developed friendships and connections with other campers. “I’ve made a lot of friendships here at camp. We might only see each other once a year, but a lot of them I’m connected to, like on Facebook and stuff, so we see what’s happening in each other’s lives. It’s nice to meet new people and see how they adapt their life with their disabilities.”
Another reason Kari’s experience at Camp Courage is special is the caring and supportive staff members at True Friends have left a lasting impression on Kari, “They’re all great, they are really good at helping out when I need it. They’re always asking if campers need anything or if we’re doing okay.” The high level of care and training staff receive is important to the values of True Friends, “I was shocked at how well they get people on and off the tube. If a participant can’t move or they utilize a wheelchair, I was impressed with how well they transfer them from their chair onto the tube,” said Kari.
Grateful for the experiences and friendships Camp has brought her, Kari has a heartfelt message for those who support True Friends: “Thank you so much to all who support True Friends. This place is great—I love it! It’s awesome for anybody and everyone.”
