Nathan Smith is my son and a 100% disabled Army veteran. At just 20 years old, Nathan suffered a life-changing brain injury during a training incident while serving in the Army. Now 30, he requires round-the-clock care, and our family has done everything possible to ensure he has the best quality of life. While the VA offers respite care, the only available locations are nursing homes, which are not suitable for someone as young and vibrant as Nathan.
For the past three years, Nathan has attended Easter Seals Camp Challenge in Sorrento, Florida. This camp has been a lifeline for him. Surrounded by campers and counselors his own age, Nathan is able to participate in activities all day long, rather than spending his days in front of a TV or iPad. The camp provides the social interaction and stimulation he needs, and he truly comes alive during his time there. Unfortunately, the cost of camp is high due to the personalized care and low camper-to-counselor ratio. Nathan has used all of his savings to pay for camp in previous years, and without help, he won’t be able to attend this year.
The funds raised will go directly to Nathan’s camp fees, transportation to and from camp, and the supplies he needs while he’s there. If we can reach our goal, Nathan will be able to spend five weeks at Camp Challenge, enjoying the freedom and joy that comes from being with his peers. This time at camp is not only a gift to Nathan, but also a much-needed break for us, his parents, from the demands of 24/7 care. We are deeply grateful for any support you can offer to help Nathan experience another summer at camp.
For the past three years, Nathan has attended Easter Seals Camp Challenge in Sorrento, Florida. This camp has been a lifeline for him. Surrounded by campers and counselors his own age, Nathan is able to participate in activities all day long, rather than spending his days in front of a TV or iPad. The camp provides the social interaction and stimulation he needs, and he truly comes alive during his time there. Unfortunately, the cost of camp is high due to the personalized care and low camper-to-counselor ratio. Nathan has used all of his savings to pay for camp in previous years, and without help, he won’t be able to attend this year.
The funds raised will go directly to Nathan’s camp fees, transportation to and from camp, and the supplies he needs while he’s there. If we can reach our goal, Nathan will be able to spend five weeks at Camp Challenge, enjoying the freedom and joy that comes from being with his peers. This time at camp is not only a gift to Nathan, but also a much-needed break for us, his parents, from the demands of 24/7 care. We are deeply grateful for any support you can offer to help Nathan experience another summer at camp.
Organizer
