SOAR365’s Respite and Summer Camp programs transform lives – both for caregivers and their loved ones with disabilities.
*Please note: this story was originally featured in SOAR365’s Summer NEWZ publication. Click here to view the full newsletter.
What makes SOAR365’s Respite program so special? It not only offers an essential break for caregivers, but also fun and adventure for their loved ones with disabilities.
“Sam loves going there!” says his mom, Rachell. “He gets excited. He’s very social, and he likes people that are really expressive and gregarious. The staff are always super happy around him.”
Sam is a familiar friendly face at SOAR365. He’s been coming to Summer Camp and Respite for years, and he recently graduated from our Youth Services program to Adult Day Support. While Sam will still be with SOAR365 and living at home, it’s a moving milestone.
“We want Sam to have a fulfilling life,” say his parents, Rachell and Jon. “We want him to be happy. We know he can’t just pick up and do whatever he wants whenever he wants, like most people can.”
SOAR365’s Respite program helps give Sam more independence. There, he gets to try out new activities and enjoy time with friends. He especially loves music and swimming in the pool. On days he can get in, “he has a blast!” says Rachell.
Sam has an ileostomy, a g-tube and a seizure disorder; he’s also more prone to getting sick. Knowing there are nurses on staff at Camp Baker gives Rachell and Jon peace of mind so they can take a much-needed break. Without occasional Respite, caregivers are at risk of stress-related burnout and health issues themselves.
“We are just thankful for it because it has given us a lifeline,” says Rachell. “Just being able to feel comfortable and to know that he’s being taken care of and they know him.” Rachell says that respite allows her to “focus, relax and enjoy” vacations and other self-care activities. Once she’s filled her cup, she’s ready to go back to the job she loves most – being Sam’s loving mom.
To learn more about SOAR365’s Respite program, click here, and to learn more about Summer Camp at Camp Baker, click here.