12-year-old Ella lives in Squamish with her parents and her 15-year-old brother, Luke. Diagnosed at age three with a rare genetic disorder affecting her cognitive and motor skills, and later diagnosed with autism, Ella’s life is supported by a careful balance of therapies, routines, and family care. Her favourite weekly activity is horseback riding therapy where she gets to see a fellow camper, Hannah, whom she looks up to like a teacher. She is socially motivated and naturally observant, always listening and taking in the world around her. Her mother’s family is from Quebec, and Ella and her mom often speak French together, alongside English, which she speaks with equal confidence.
When Ella attended Easter Seals Camp for the first time at age 11, her parents were unsure of what to expect. It was her first time sleeping away from home, and they worried about how she would settle, communicate, and manage getting dressed and washing up without their constant support. The first day was hard, but she warmed up quickly. What stood out most was how comfortable she became in a space with no pressure to perform. At camp, Ella is surrounded by others who move at her pace, where there is no judgement and expectation for participation varies by the camper. She is free to participate in a way that feels right for her – whether it is to watch, cheer or be an active participant. In every situation, she feels like she belongs, and doesn’t feel left out. It is a place where she feels safe, relaxed, and truly part of a community.
Camp has also changed life for Ella’s family. While Ella spent a week at Camp Winfield last summer, her parents took her brother Luke camping, giving them rare one-on-one together. Like many siblings, Luke and Ella share moments of rivalry, but he is deeply protective of her and helps care for her after school each day. Knowing Ella was happy and well supported at camp lifted a weight from her parents’ shoulders.
The confidence that Ella has gained through camp is being carried into her everyday life. Her parents now feel comfortable letting Ella take part in experiences they once thought were out of reach, including an upcoming multi-day school trip to Manning Park. The journey of building that sense of trust and independence began at camp.
Today, Easter Seals Camp is the highlight of Ella’s year. She talks about it often, looks through photos, and while on a family camping trip she repeatedly shared “I miss Easter Camp!”. Her speech has grown stronger, her confidence has deepened, and she takes pride in having something that is her own. Her parents are especially grateful knowing camp will continue to be part of her life into adulthood, at a time when many other support programs and therapies come to an end. For Ella and her family, camp is not just a week away. It is a turning point that has opened doors, built confidence, and created space for joy, independence, and possibility.
Your support ensures that more campers like Ella have the chance to experience the life-changing magic of Easter Seals Camps this summer. By donating today, you’re helping to provide the staff, facilities, and programs that empower children, youth, and adults to discover their strengths and build lasting confidence.
