WACK 2013

You would think I'd get used to this, but it gets me every year.  I stand in amazement as a bunch of knowledgeable and organized volunteers rush around to fit kids into ski vests, "cages," and modified skis.  Then, they carefully position them into the equipment (Ian requires extra padding since he's so skinny) and lower them into the water.

 He waits with anticipation while the boat gets into position (and of course, he is waving to the crowd on the dock!)

 Then, the boat pulls away and the helpers make sure he's safe until he's "up" and off he goes, with 2 jet skis at his side in case he falls out.  And, I stand there taking pictures through blurry eyes filled with tears.  There are so, so few things that these kids can do that give them the sense of freedom that skiing does and here are all these people, volunteering their time, boats, fuel, sacrificing vacation days, etc just for our kids. 

 Heading out....

 and coming back

Do you think he enjoyed it???  

Posing with Dad 

 Kimberly is a beautiful, sweet girl that we met at Camp WACK 2 years ago and have been blessed to get to know her entire family.  Ian was thrilled to have his picture taken with her and insisted on holding her hand.  

 No only does Ian get to have fun, but the other boys got to go fishing and take part in different activities. Jeremy caught a fish but refused to touch it.  Going to have to work on that!

Lucas found the craft table and made a visor and colored pictures.

I tried to get a picture of Amie Gish, who coordinates and directs Camp WACK (Water Adventure Camp for Kids) but she was always moving and I didn't get a good one.  I know she has a great group of folks who help her throughout the year.  Thank you to all who donate food, money, time, boats, fuel, and so much more to this awesome program!!!  You will probably never know what a blessing it is to so many people who have challenges that most of us can't even imagine coping with.  Many of them can't express their thanks verbally, but I think Ian's smile  and right arm pumping the air says it all!  He LOVES it and is thankful for the opportunity!!  Can't wait for next year!!