Quinnipiac hosted overnight camp for children with limb loss or differences and their families

July 11, 2022

Two teenagers with limb loss play basketball using wheelchairs

Quinnipiac's occupational and physical therapy programs hosted Camp No Limits, an overnight camp for children and adolescents with limb loss or differences and their families, July 7-10, on its York Hill Campus.

Camp No Limits aims to increase the functional independence of children living with limb loss or differences. About 20 campers and their families experienced a network of support through adaptive recreational activities and life skills programs. These events were led by physical and occupational therapists, prosthetists, Quinnipiac students and faculty, and teen and adult mentors with limb loss or differences.

On Friday, a field day program and running and biking clinics took place. During this time, campers and staff members learned about scholastic sport rule modifications that pertain to playing sports with prosthetics.

Each day started with “energizer” activities. Sports at the camp included volleyball, sled hockey and basketball.

In 2015, Quinnipiac became the first and only institution of higher education in the country to host Camp No Limits. There was no camp in 2021 due to the pandemic.

“The participants are truly inspirational and supportive of each other's goals, challenges and ultimate triumphs while experiencing life skills and recreational opportunities provided throughout the weekend,” said Valerie Strange, clinical associate professor of occupational therapy at Quinnipiac. “The sense of community is palpable. We are so excited to bring camp back to QU and to welcome campers and their families to a fun-filled and meaningful program.”

Camp participants developed self-confidence, achieve personal goals and form enduring friendships. They also participated in recreational programs available to children with limb loss or differences and gain knowledge of the latest prosthetic options.

Camp No Limits was founded in 2004 by Mary Leighton, an occupational therapist from Maine. The camp began with four children. Today, there are nine locations nationwide, serving hundreds of families. In addition to Connecticut, Camp No Limits is offered in Arizona, California, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Missouri, Tennessee and Texas.

 

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