Camp STAR 2009

Summer Time Amputee Retreat

June 11–14, 2009
Registration Deadline May 29, 2009

About Camp STAR
Camp STAR is a four-day getaway that provides campers with an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of YMCA Camp Kon-O-Kwee/Spencer Campground (near Zelienople, Pa.).

Camp STAR began in 1976. The goal of this program is to give support to youth with limb loss and amputations by empowering them to be healthy, confident and active; all while creating positive social interaction and developing peer support.

Campers are encouraged to make new friends and share their experiences. Camp provides them with an opportunity to participate in sports and other camp activities to the best of their abilities without fear of being judged by others.

Campers also have role models in Camp STAR counselors and junior counselors, many of whom have some type of limb loss and were campers themselves at one time. They can speak from their past experiences, hospitalizations, tests, surgeries and illnesses; and are proof that children with limb loss can become normally functioning adolescents and young adults.

Camp STAR Activities
Camp STAR offers standard summer camp activities, including:

  • Paddle-boating
  • Fishing
  • Arts and crafts
  • Campfires
  • Hayrides
  • Climbing/rappelling wall
  • Dance
  • Tennis
  • Volleyball
  • Swimming
  • Trail of Courage (obstacle course)
  • Basketball
  • Canoeing
  • High and low ropes
  • Lazy river float
  • Nature
  • Outdoor living skills
  • Team building
  • Zip line

Camp STAR offers several unique activities. Two activities that offer an educational element are “Ask the Prosthetist/Physical Therapist” and “Ask the Counselor.”

During “Ask the Prosthetist/Physical Therapist,” campers are encouraged to ask about their prosthetics and about different ways to deal with the everyday activities of life. In these sessions, the prosthetist will give updates on the newest prosthetic information in the market today.

The “Ask the Counselor” session is held with the entire group. During this session, the counselors share stories about their amputations, what kind of procedures they have had, how they have learned to cope with their conditions, and what they do outside of Camp STAR. Campers are encouraged to ask the counselors questions regarding:

  • How they deal with daily life activities
  • How they have adjusted to being an amputee
  • What to tell people about their amputations
  • How to deal with physical limitations
  • Dating and other issues adolescents encounter

For questions regarding Camp STAR 2009, please contact co-director Cindy McCue at 412-370-5481 or via e-mail at cindymcq1@verizon.net .

Last Update

April 21, 2009
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Last Update

April 21, 2009
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