Jun 18, 2007 12:00 pm US/Central
Feeling Fit Is Fun At Camp For Disabled
by Jim Mullen
CHICAGO (CBS) ―
Keeping in shape is important for everyone. But it can be especially challenging for kids with disabilities. CBS 2's Disabilties Reporter Jim Mullen has the story of a camp where feeling fit is fun.
The wellness camp at Shriners Hospital for children is one happening place. These teenagers are learning about all aspects of fitness.
Staying in shape is important for everyone. But it takes on an extra dimension for kids like these.
Camper Patrick Juris said, "Kids with disabilities have more medical problems than usual and it takes more work to stay fit and healthy."
The camp begins with careful health evaluations. Then comes the fun. Besides basketball, there's adaptive cycling, boxing, yoga and good food.
In fact, at this camp, nutritional training is just as important as physical training.
Darlene Kelly of Shriners Hospitals for Children said, "They continue to eat inappropriately, they gain weight, they have problems in their chairs or transferring themselves. It's a snowball effect."
Pamela Patt of Shriners Hospitals for Children said, "The goal is to introduce these kids to the concept of what good nutrition is, to help them understand portion control, we try to teach them how what they eat affects their mood."
The kids come for all different reasons. Some came to get fit for prom. Others came to learn how to eat healthy and made new friends along the way.
The staff is looking ahead to the campers' futures.
Kelly said, "Hopefully they'll take this with them forever and make it a lifetime change."
The camp runs for three days and then there are follow up activities. There are different sessions through the year but it's only open to Shriners patients.
(© MMVII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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