FIRST, WEEK AT CAMP PALS!!
I have been so busy that I have not had a chance to post all the fun things I have been doing, so I am doing a post to update everyone! ‘
July was super busy!! I spent one week in Boston with the PALS program. I stayed on the Stone Hill College campus with all the other campers. I had a great partner!! Her name is Mary! We had so much fun.
The PALS program always provides me with chances to step out of my comfort zone and overcome fears. This year, it was surfing!! Gnome Surf runs a surfing therapy program for people with different abilities. I watched some of my friends do it first, then decided I was going to try it, even though I was scared! It was fun! It was pretty hard to balance, because I need to work on my core strength. I wish there was a program like this closer so I could do it all the time!
We went into Boston and did a number of activities. The Duck Boat was pretty scary! I didn’t like driving into the water at all! But, I did it and made it out on the other side! After we had lunch at Quincy Market, we played miniature golf at the Putt Putt Boston indoor mini golf place. The Boston Aquarium is an amazing place to visit! My favorite exhibit is the really big sea turtle!!
When on the Stone Hill campus we were very busy doing a lot of activities. We did activities to get to know each other, arts and crafts, sang karaoke, had a dance, and spent a lot of time outside! Its a good thing I had a lot of sunscreen!!
At the end of each PALS camp experience, all the campers have to write letters that get sent to parents of babies with Down syndrome. We send these letters to new families to give them hope and to encourage them that having a baby with Down syndrome is a good thing!!
Dear Family,
My name is Chelsea Bailey. I have Down Syndrome. I love my life! Congratulations on your new baby. This baby will bring you so much love and joy……….
The PALS program is funded by donations to the program. All the partners at each camp are volunteers. I am including a link if you would like to donate! You can dedicate your donation if you want to! Thank you for supporting something that is so important to me and so many others who have Down syndrome!
Being a part of this program has helped me become as confident and independent as I am. It has helped me overcome fears, go out of my comfort zone, gain confidence in who I am. It gives me a chance to make new friends, a lot of them who I will see next summer at PALS!
BYE PALS BOSTON!! UNTIL NEXT YEAR!! It’s been an incredible journey through this vibrant city filled with rich history and unforgettable moments. From exploring the city on the Duck Boat, to savoring the delicious tastes of Quincy Market, each experience has been a cherished memory. As we part ways, let’s hold onto the laughter and friendships we’ve built, eagerly anticipating our next adventure together in this amazing place. Until next year, Boston!
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