WEE CAN SKI boosts children with special needs
by Danielle Wong Moores
For children who cannot walk, the MCG Children's Medical Center WEE CAN SKI program helps them soar.
Since 1999, children with physical challenges or cognitive delays have enjoyed an exciting day of waterskiing, tubing, jet-skiing and boat-riding, thanks to special adaptive equipment and trained volunteers. This year's program is Saturday, June 10, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the beach on the Pointes West Army Recreation Area at Lake Thurmond (formerly the Fort Gordon Recreation Area).
"The children learn that life doesn't have limits," said Julie Moretz, director of family services development at the MCG Children's Medical Center. "They find out they can do this, and it's such a boost to their confidence and self-esteem."
The program is open to those age 5 to 18 with physical or medical challenges or cognitive delays.
Every year, sponsors ensure the program is offered free to every child who wishes to participate. Volunteer are needed to lifeguard, to secure, launch and catch children during water sports, and to assist with other activities.
To donate your time, share your resources or to register a child for the event, contact the MCG Children's Medical Center at ext. 1-6838.
Supporters of this year's program include A+ Medical; BNCOC and ANCOC, Regimental NCO Academy, Fort Gordon; CH Martin Pediatric Orthotics; Covenant Pediatrics; MCG Sertoma Club; Sconyers Bar-B-Que; and Stow Away Self Storage.