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Chiefs Ability Camp    

 

In May of 2006, my son and the rest of his family were fortunate enough to attend one of the Chiefs Ability Camps in Kansas City Mo. This camp was sponsored by Families Together for children with disabilities, but I can't call it anything other than an ability camp. This was an enlightening experience, not only for my son, but the entire family.  My son, Caysean, is diagnosed with epilepsy. We have dealt with this since he was two years old. We have two other children, an older son and a younger daughter. Our family has been involved in sports for a long time.  There is a three year difference between Cayleb (my oldest) and Caysean. By the time Caysean was old enough to compete, his older brother was a state qualifier in wrestling.  My family has wrestled competitively for the last nine years with all three of the kids competing very well. Unfortunately Caysean has had stumbles and downfalls that have affected him throughout his wrestling career.  I coach a youth wrestling program in western Kansas and have had the enjoyment of watching my children prosper in a very competitive environment. As a father I have also watched my son struggle in his greatest moments because of his disability.  When we received the information for the camp we were unsure whether it would be worth the expense and trouble to make the trip to K. C. for the camp. After discussing the situation with Caysean, we made arrangements for the trip. We do a tremendous amount of traveling for the wrestling season, and this expense was definitely not  in the budget.  We made the arrangements for the trip, and I can thankfully say this was one trip that was worth the trouble.  My son has made comments about his medication, and medical condition. This obviously makes my wife and myself realize how uncomfortable it makes him feel. This camp gave Caysean a time to feel good about himself. It gave him a chance to realize he wasn't so different. It was a wonderful experience to watch all of the children playing and competing together.  No special rules, no special teams. Everyone was out there to help and cheer each other. My older son and younger daughter also participated as "Helpers." They weren't old enough to volunteer, but couldn't help but get caught up in the enthusiasm.  I couldn't call this experience as

anything less than fantastic. If I could attend all of the camps, I would. Not only for Caysean,

but for the positive effect it had on the rest of my family. The volunteers, Chiefs players, and

other campers were exceptional. My family may not be able to make all of the camps, but

I know we look forward to the Kansas City Chiefs next year.

 

Thank You,

Robert Campbell and the Campbell Family

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