shoreupdate.com

By Sandra Zunino

Hayrides, boating, nature walks and other outdoor activities can be a challenge for those who suffer disabilities brought on by Multiple Sclerosis (MS), but thanks to the Delaware Chapter of the National MS Society, a special weekend retreat at Camp Fairlee Manor near Chestertown will allow people with MS to participate in all these activities and more.

On September 17, 18 and 19, Easter Seals Camp Fairlee Manor will host a true camp experience for anyone who is over the age of 18, has MS and has not attended a weekend retreat at Camp Fairlee Manor in the past 24 months. Grants for Easter Seals and the National MS Society fund the adventure, so the retreat is free for participants.

Fairlee Manor Recreation and Education Center is a beautiful, residential/recreational and respite camp on 250 sprawling acres on Fairlee Creek. Donated to the Easter Seals organization by the Dupont family, Fairlee Manor provides a fully accessible camping experience to both children and adults with disabilities.

“The entire park is designed with recreational opportunities and has adaptive equipment offering availability to people with all types of disabilities,” says Marie Eldreth, Programs & Advocacy Coordinator for the National MS Society Delaware Chapter. “When I found out it was available, I thought it would be great for a weekend getaway.”

The Delaware Chapter started teaming up with Fairlee Manor a year ago. While this is the sixth retreat offered to Delaware residents, it is the first retreat offered to people with MS from Maryland. Marie says she thought collaborating with the Maryland Chapter could expand opportunities to those with MS from both states. “It is our hope that this is the beginning of a long and wonderful relationship with the Maryland Chapter,” she says.

With dormitory–style accommodations, participants are hardly roughing it, but still enjoy the camp atmosphere complete with fire ring for roasting marshmallows, boats and nature trails. Because Easter Seals provides specially trained staff that can provide full-time care giving for every circumstance, attendees need not worry about being without their caregivers. In fact, as space it limited to only those with MS, caregivers can enjoy a few days of respite. “I cannot say enough about the staff,” says Marie. “They are the most amazing group of people who are engaging, caring and passionate about what they do.”

At one retreat, Marie witnessed staff assisting participants climb a rock wall. “It was a beautiful Saturday and every member of all abilities and ages tried the wall and made it to the top no matter how long it took,” reflects Marie. “The looks on their faces was as if they had just conquered the world!”

Additionally, camp coordinators create a versatile itinerary to accommodate the guests, whether it includes a casino night, spa treatments and movie nights to pottery, rock climbing and Karaoke. Even if inclement weather strikes, the itinerary can be modified so everyone still has a blast. “We have only had one retreat when it rained the entire weekend,” says Marie, “and that group still had a great time and wanted to go back.”

As space is limited, interested parties should contact Marie at 302-655-5610 ext. 116 by September 8. Participants must provide a doctor’s note and complete an application. For more information about the National M.S. Society, visit www.nationalmssociety.org.