A local girl took part in a seminar with other children from around the province who are also amputees recently.
Jessica Hamel, 10, born a left leg and partial left hand amputee, attended the three-day War Amps 2014 BC Child Amputee (CHAMP) seminar and during it, learned how to adopt the seminar theme “Set the Bar High” and not let her amputation be a barrier to living a full and active life.
Seminar discussion focused on the latest developments in artificial limbs, dealing with teasing and bullying and parenting an amputee child.
Created in 1975, the Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program is built on the Winner’s Circle philosophy which encourages child amputees (Champs) to accept their amputations and develop a positive approach to challenges.
The CHAMP Program’s services provide financial assistance for artificial limbs and various recreational devices as well as emotional support through programs such as Matching Mothers, Seminars and Junior Counselling.