Teen Adventure Camp day 4

Day 4 of MS Teen Adventure Camp was an educational, relaxing, fun, and crafty day. Following breakfast, two professional yoga instructors came in and led us in a 90 minute yoga session. This session was most definitely the best yoga session I have participated in. The instructor was aware of our fatigue, and did not push us to hold difficult positions. Instead, we mainly focused on easy stretches, muscle building, and breathing. I was amazed how relaxed, and energized I felt afterwards!

We split into four groups and rotated to our "mentor led discussions." The four topics were education options, relationships, coping, and knowing your limits. Many of the things people said, were very relatable. For example: some of my friends at school do not think I deserve the good grades, and happiness at school, since I am never there. They think I get everything I want because I am sick. Wrong. Instead, they don't see the work I am doing at home to keep up with my class; the emails I send to my teachers to build relationships and get assignments, and the extra classes I take in order to graduate with my class. Another example is from the "knowing your limits" category. We all have to be sure to find a cool place away from the heat. Or ask our friends to slow down when walking from place to place. 

The afternoon was filled with crafts. Three people from Artists' Exchange came and led the groups in activities including giant Jenga, musical/creative writing, and creating mosaics. Jenga was particularly challenging for some, as we not only had to balance ourselves, but also the growing tower. 

For dinner, we had a "carnival" consisting of a barbecue, and informational stations. There were tents set up from areas such as: self advocacy, therapy dogs, nutrition, humor, accessible sports, and exercising. Some professionals came to share their area of expertise (i.e. nutrition), and some were led by camp staff. It was fun learning about the resources available, and how we can utilize our resources and knowledge. (bubblegum blowing contest pictured below)

Our day ended with a discussion focused around "the box." The Box, is a box of anonymous questions from campers throughout the week. As each question was read aloud by a staff member, campers, mentors, or staff members could help answer the question, and contribute to the conversation. Many questions were related to "are my kids going to get ms?" or "what is the probability that my siblings have ms?" or a lot about genetics. Unfortunately, there is still a lot of gray area when discussing the genetic factor of MS, but research is being conducted. Hopefully we will have answers to those questions in the near future. 

One of the last questions asked, was "If you were given the option to go back and not be diagnosed with MS, would you?" To my surprise, every person answered with a "no." Many explained that their MS helped them grow as a person; they had to become mature much faster. Some questioned who they might otherwise be? One shared how she appreciates her "MS Perks" or accommodations, and many said that Multiple Sclerosis is a 'Blessing in Disguise.' 

It was fun seeing the excitement and passion in the room. Most people participated in the discussion at one point. Everyone was able to learn, and teach to the rest of the campers.