Heather’s Camp empowers children who are visually impaired
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) – Every summer, Jayda Purdie finds her true self at Heather’s Camp.
The camp gives kids who are blind or visually impaired a traditional camp experience.
“There are people around you who understand your struggles,” said the former camper and current camp counselor in training.
The week leaves them empowered. It allows others to see Jayda as the leader she is.
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“It’s uplifting for you, and I think it also shows people that you’re capable instead of assuming that you’re not able to do something,” Purdie said.
Envision started the camp in honor of Heather Muller, who was one of the Carr brothers’ victims in 2000.
“Heather was a light to this world,” said Hannah Christenson, Envision’s director of community services.
The 25-year-old’s passion lit up around children.
“She called them especially small ones her ‘teenies,'” said Jamison Muller, Heather’s brother. “Anytime that she could do anything to help kids, she would. Then, I think deep down she knew her real calling was to help any children with special needs.”
The camp began in 2001 and has helped over 550 children. During the camp, kids play sports, do outdoor activities, and challenge themselves.
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“Sometimes when children have disabilities, they’re often like steered away from things that might be challenging, but we don’t do that. We push them,” Christenson explained.
Jamison is a counselor at the camp, where he feels Heather’s presence every summer.
“I can’t think of a time when it doesn’t feel like just, you know, her joy that she had,” he said.
The week builds confidence in the campers while honoring Heather’s legacy.
“I think she’d be like you guys are doing great, but let’s keep going,” he said.
The experience offers continuous inspiration for 24 years and counting.
Envision offers resources for people living blind or with visual impairments year-round. You can help by donating or volunteering.
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