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[The Ross Report. By Robert Ross, Senior Vice President + Executive Director]

October 1, 1999

ON SUMMER'S END AND MEMORIES OF MDA CAMP

The dedicated efforts of everyone on our Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon team -- including those involved in local portions of our Telethon broadcast across the country -- culminated in a triumph for all concerned and a record pledge total of $53.1 million to fund MDA's life-enhancing programs.

And yet the Telethon wasn't the only matter that consumed MDA's energies this summer. As always, MDA's summer camp program was a top priority, one that demanded a great deal of time and energy on the part of MDA staff and volunteers, but one which offered unique rewards.

Each year, MDA sponsors some 80 summer camp sessions across the country to help young people ages 6 to 21 who are affected by neuromuscular disorders enjoy unique weeks of fun and recreation. At MDA summer camp, volunteers help campers partake in activities geared for their special physical abilities. In addition, volunteers provide campers with round-the-clock care. MDA staff recruit the volunteers and coordinate and oversee the camp sessions.

The best way to understand the "magic" of MDA camp is to experience the words of those who have been directly affected by it. Following are excerpts from letters written by campers, parents, volunteers and MDA staff following 1999's summer camp program.

Thank you so much for the opportunity to send my daughters to MDA summer camp. They were kept busy with a number of activities and truly enjoyed them all. Lauren says the dance and talent show were the best! Rachel liked the dance and boating the best! I am grateful for the friendships they developed with the other campers and the counselors, friendships which I hope will last a lifetime.

-- a parent in Long Island, N.Y.

"I want my mommy! I want you to come and get me NOW!" Such was our phone call from Sammy on the second day of this year's great adventure, her week at MDA camp. We held firm, hoping if she could just get past her initial homesickness, Sammy's zest for life and love of adventure would carry her through. Three hours later came another call. "Mom! The Harleys are coming, the Harleys are coming!" And indeed they were -- a fleet of Harley-Davidson motorcycles roared into camp, complete with sidecars to enable each of the 37 MDA campers to enjoy the thrill of a motorcycle ride through the spectacular mountain terrain surrounding the camp. Sammy's homesickness was cured. MDA camp proved to be an extraordinary experience for Sammy.

-- a parent in Denver

How my life has changed because of MDA summer camp. I wish I could relate to you every priceless friendship; every day at the pool; every food fight; every moonlit dance; every laugh with my counselor. Thank you, MDA. I urge young campers to cherish each moment and treat it like your last. There's only one MDA summer camp.

-- an 18-year-old camper in St. Petersburg, Fla.

This was my first experience at camp. It was a wonderful memory that I will cherish forever. At times when I think about this past week and even now as I am writing this letter, I get emotional. Sometimes I'm happy, other times sad, but I do know that I am very thankful that I was given the chance to have a positive influence on some of these kids' lives. Thanks for a truly unforgettable experience.

-- a camp volunteer in Charlotte, N.C.

My first year of MDA summer camp was an incredible experience. From the moment that the campers arrived, I realized that all the hard work was worth every minute. All the activities, from power soccer to arts and crafts, had a different impact on each child. They learned to look deeper into themselves; they learned the word "can"; they learned about unconditional love and encouragement; they learned about lasting friendship with incredible, generous volunteers. And through tears of joy I learned about a magical place where kids are kids.

-- an MDA staff member in Tulsa, Okla.

Helping kids be kids will always be the driving motivation behind our MDA camp program. On the 1999 Telethon, we were proud to honor Michael Johnson, a freshman and athlete at Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, Ala., who has been celebrated in Parade magazine for his outstanding volunteer efforts, including two terms of service at MDA summer camp. Michael came the first year to MDA camp to fulfill service hours required by his school. The second year, although his service requirement had been fulfilled, he returned to MDA camp because his heart compelled him to. It was a privilege to welcome him on our 1999 Telethon so he could speak about the effect MDA camp had had on his life.

Camp season is over until next summer, but in the meantime, don't hesitate to call MDA to ask about MDA programs requiring volunteer help. Call (800) 572-1717 today or click here and find out how good it feels to make a difference.

With every best wish . . .

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