Kelly & Wilder's Story

Every time Kelly drove by Camp Otonabee on her way to work, it stood out to her as a classic summer camp. She always wanted to be able to give her 6-year-old son, Wilder, the experience of going to a camp like that, but as a single mom supporting two children with disabilities, it seemed out of the question.

In 2023, her hopes were made possible when she was offered financial support through the Evelyne E. Laishley Campership Fund. Receiving this annual sponsorship fund meant that Wilder had the opportunity to attend a day program at Camp Otonabee. “To let him have that typical summer experience, that he can go back to school with and relate to others … I just think it’s so important,” Kelly shared.

Wilder is an active kid. He loves building with LEGO and being outside. He also has a limb difference and wears a prosthetic. For Kelly, having a son with a disability means that acceptance and accommodation are necessary in new environments. “It is a large requirement when Wilder will be attending somewhere that I’m not going to be present.”

We’re so grateful for the support for Wilder. It doesn’t just make a difference in his life, it also makes a difference in mine.

Kelly

Camp Director, Marisa, alongside Assistant Director, Hannah, met with Kelly and Wilder in advance to discuss how to best support him at camp. They talked about when he should be wearing his prosthetic, appropriate language to use, and how potential comments from other children would be handled.

Kelly believed that Camp Otonabee would be a great fit for Wilder, and she was proven right. Wilder made friends and participated in activities like canoeing, swimming and nature walks. He was particularly proud of facing his fears on the high rope course. “The first time I did it, I was scared,” said Wilder. “The second time, I wanted to go to the top … It was fun!”

Kelly saw that Wilder was excited to wake up every morning and return to camp for more adventures. “I could see his confidence was growing in himself and in his social relationships.”

Wilder will have the opportunity to come back to Camp Otonabee for a second year. He and Kelly are both looking forward to it. “We’re so grateful for the support for Wilder. It doesn’t just make a difference in his life, it also makes a different in mine.”