Camp Testimonials

by Chuck Jones

IMAGINE . . .

You (or a loved one) have suffered a stroke. . .

You survived immediate Emergency care. . .

Your acute care and extensive rehabilitation has ended. . .

You try to reclaim a vital and meaningful lifestyle while enduring the daily restrictions of a stroke . . . AND . . .

You have no continued support!

Nearly 250,000 new stroke survivors and caregivers face these challenges every year.

NOW . . . IMAGINE . . .

...that you can escape for a three or four day weekend of new friendships and opportunities, while enjoying the benefits of relaxation, continued education, socialization and ongoing support.

That's where we come in. Retreat & Refresh Stroke Camp provides opportunities to:

meet other stroke survivors and their caregivers,









relax and enjoy the outdoors,

participate in various activities, 

read or write a good book, take a nap or a quiet stroll in the woods.

                   
                                 

Indulge in pampering: manicures, pedicures, 

massages.

Have healthy meals, prepared for you onsite.

Take part in craft projects; painting, soap making, jewelry. 









Join others in games (including Wii), movies, fishing, boating, hiking, and much more,

                                               And music!


What we have found: Direct support to survivors and caregiver, educational opportunities, better public understanding, renewed hope and motivation, opportunity for survivors to help other survivors, increased community support for survivors, caregivers, and family members.

Testimonials

Survivors Say:

"Little did I know when we signed up how much fun and knowledge I would gain from Stroke Camp. Stroke Camp is very important because it allows survivors and therapists an opportunity to share knowledge and interact socially outside of the hospital setting. It was especially meaningful as a celebration and honor to all caregivers as they were able to get pampered with manicures, facials, and massages, while enjoying a weekend socializing with other caregivers, sharing stories, and merriment the whole time. We danced, we sang, we beat on drums and played instruments, enjoyed spectacular food and service. We fished, boating was made available, and we cruised around on golf carts. All in all, at the end of the day, we needed Stroke Camp more than it needed us." 
-Mark, Nebraska

Caregivers say:

"It was well organized and offered such a variety of activities! For me as a caregiver, it was a great release and welcome relief from our normal routine. Everyone helping, made us feel so comfortable and were there just when we needed them."
-Cheryl, Colorado 

Volunteers say:

"Although I was only able to stay for one day, I don't remember when I ever worked harder, felt more humbled and rewarded all at the same time. It was an incredible experience and one where I learned a lot! Several of my patients attended this year. All I can say is 'WOW!' It was amazing to see how they blossomed and laughed and just lived!" -Lisa, Illinois 

"I've been volunteering at camps since 2004. We have a great majority of repeat campers every year, so that should tell you something right there. We have from twenty up to sixty campers and volunteers attending our three day camps throughout the United States. It is heart warming to see our stroke survivors laughing and enjoying themselves and feeling almost normal again. It does wonders for them to meet and share their experiences and see how other survivors are progressing and improving, giving each more hope for their own future. It is also a great way for the caregivers to meet and compare notes, share ideas and experiences, and gain encouragement. Both the survivors and the caregivers realize they are not alone on their journey to recovery."
-Chuck, Illinois
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Please see our 2013 camp schedules on our web site:
http://www.strokecamp.org/?camplist&camplist

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