Kiera Sparks #UnstoppABLE

A little about me….

I am 18 years old. I was born with cerebral palsy. I use a walker and a wheelchair. Sometimes it is hard to be in my “shoes” in a world that is not accessible.

But I am #unstoppable

I graduated last June from Auburn High School. I attend the ACHIEVE program at NSCC. I am looking at other options beyond NSCC. I live with my Mom and Step-Dad. I like hanging out with my friends.

Easter Seals NS Ambassador

I have been the Easter Seals NS ambassador for 4 years. I do public speaking about my time each summer at Camp Tidnish. I love telling my story….. And I am really good at it!

Camp Tidnish

Camp Tidnish is located outside of Amherst and is run by Easter Seals Nova Scotia and owned by the Amherst Rotary Club. It has been there for over 80 years. It’s the only barrier free fully accessible camp in Nova Scotia. Each year it is sold out with 271 campers from age 6 to 86. It costs a lot to run but the fees are low, we fundraise the rest.

I can swim in the heated – in ground pool with lifts. I can go on pontoon rides from the fully accessible dock. I can go on hayrides with their accessible cart and ramps. I can go on the in-ground trampoline.

I can play boccia, enjoy crafts and bonfires. I can have all my needs met by trained  counsellors and on-site nurse.

What camp means to me

I have no problems at Camp with accessibility whether it be when I want to have fun or something as simple as using the bathroom. I get to make new friends and keep in touch with my old ones.

I get to talk to other kids who have challenges like I do. Mom gets a break from me… and I get a break from her! I have fun.  I relax.  I enjoy myself.

How you can help

Our fundraising gap for Camp Tidnish this year is $166,000. I told you earlier, some days it is hard to walk in my shoes. I want you to look down at the shoes you are wearing tonight. Think about where these shoes take you and what they allow you to do. Now I want you write a cheque to ESNS for the cost of your shoes. So that other kids can have fun and walk in their own shoes regardless of the challenges they face.

To donate to Camp Tidnish please click here. Thank you!