When Hannah first arrived at Easter Seals Camp Squamish in 2019, she was nervous. Sleeping away from home felt overwhelming, the noise of the dorms made it hard to rest, and she didn’t know many people. But slowly, camp began to feel like home.
That first week marked the start of a life-changing journey. Every summer since, Hannah has returned to camp, building new skills, friendships, and confidence.
At camp, she’s discovered her favourite traditions: pranking camp leaders during Kangaroo Khaos, soaring higher on the Big Swing, dancing at the banquet after a big dinner, and making tie-dye shirts (so many that she now has a whole drawer filled with them!) She also bravely steps onto the stage for the talent show, singing and playing ukulele. Though her hands shake with nerves, she pushes through, and the cheers from her camp friends remind her that she can do hard things.
Camp also provides many opportunities to build lasting friendships, like Hannah and Koko, a friend she only gets to see at camp as they live far away from each other. Every year, they plan their sessions so they can spend a week together catching up, laughing, and making new memories.
Today, Hannah lives in Squamish with her parents and their dogs, works at a pet store and a grocery store, and attends a local day program. On Saturdays, she rides horses. Thanks to camp, she has had the opportunity to stay away from home.
For her parents, Caroline and Todd, camp means just as much. “Camp gives Hannah full independence in a supported setting,” says Caroline. “It’s the only time she’s away from home, and it allows us to rest knowing she’s safe, happy, and thriving.” Their family goal is that one day Hannah will be able to stay with friends for sleepovers and be confident home alone for a weekend, something she’s not quite ready for yet, but each summer at camp brings her closer.
Easter Seals camp is more than a week of fun, it’s a stepping stone to independence, self-confidence, and lifelong friendships. It gives young people like Hannah the chance to discover who they are and what they’re capable of.
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