Camping, disabilities, and deception
Picture this: A camping trip, tents, marshmallows, and a bunch of teenagers with a wide range of disabilities - autism, ADHD, blindness, cerebral palsy, and more. And our gear? Well, it's not just sleeping bags and camp stoves; think motorized wheelchairs, feeding pumps, and adult diapers. Oh, and we had a trained service dog for that extra flair! 🏕️🐶
But here's the kicker - despite the unique challenges we faced, the experience was remarkably, wonderfully typical. We gathered by the shore to watch stunning sunsets, flew kites into the endless blue skies, and tried to outmaneuver campfire smoke (with varying degrees of success). Burgers sizzled, marshmallows toasted, and snacks disappeared like magic. Because, let's face it, there's a sense of community in camp food that's universal.
Our campground, nestled in the Salish Sea, had a history dating back centuries, yet its name, "Deception Pass," made me ponder. Deception, after all, is all about accepting the untrue as true. 🌊
And that brings me to the heart of it: the deception about raising children with disabilities. It's not a sob story or an epic saga; it's just life, full of quirks and beauty. Noble? Heroic? Let's ditch those labels. The true deception is assuming that someone with a disability is worlds apart and too challenging to support.
You see, car camping is a lesson in support and accommodations. Whether it's the three-inch-thick air mattress for a good night's sleep or the portable toilet in the tent (to avoid those noisy zippers in the middle of the night), it's all about making life a tad easier.
Now, I can't wrap up this post without mentioning the game-changer - "Crip Camp." Once known as Camp Jened, it became "Crip Camp" for those teenagers, embracing the term 'crip' as a source of communal power. Catch this incredible journey in the documentary "Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution" on Netflix. 📺
Just like how "Crip Camp" transformed a group of teenagers into a powerful community, our camping trip with families who have children with disabilities showed us the strength of unity. It's about celebrating our differences, embracing the challenges, and creating unforgettable memories together.
If you're on a quest for more normalcy in your life, know that you're not alone. Reach out, connect with others who understand your journey, and let's build a supportive community that thrives on the extraordinary. 🏕️✨