From the 2022 Easterseals Colorado Annual Report

An interview with Dave and Wendy Dennis, long-time volunteers with Easterseals Colorado’s Rocky Mountain Village camp.

What is the inspiration behind your getting involved with Easterseals Colorado and Rocky Mountain Village (RMV)?
Dave: My sister Lisa worked at camp in 1984 and had a great experience. I was inspired by her stories. Prior to that, our aunt Mary had Down Syndrome. She had a significant impact on our family. Her mother, my grandmother, was instrumental in creating ARC in Cedar Rapids in Iowa in the 1950-60s. My mother was a special education teacher for 30 years. She also volunteered at RMV camp.
Wendy: Initially, I followed Dave. We worked the summer of 1990 together. It was a unique and life changing experience to be at camp. The campers shared their stories with me and allowed me to care for them and experience camp with them. The Muscular Dystrophy group confided in me with their life struggles. The Hemophilia group practiced IV access on my arms. I learned how to drive a powered wheelchair down from outcamp at night, without light! I learned that campers trusted me in the pool to help them swim. I learned that being able bodied didn’t mean I was more entitled or necessarily good at caring for others. Truly a humbling experience! If there is ever a life experience to teach an individual to treat someone the way you want to be treated, this was it! Side note, after 30 years of marriage, I will still follow Dave wherever he goes!

What is the one moment that excited you most about your involvement?
Enjoying an atmosphere of persons with disabilities just simply enjoying camp and being surrounded with people who can make that magic happen. The camp staff truly give of themselves. The camp staff give their time and energy to benefit the camp, but the campers also give life enriching experiences. It seems to be of mutual benefit. It appears to be an ordinary daily exchange of activities, but it reaches deep for all involved. Every day is extra-ordinary in the most genuine of exchanges. It is felt at the barn, at the fishing pond, at the zip line, at any meal. It is a very special place, for all involved.

What has surprised you most about working with Easterseals Colorado/RMV?
A lot! We had never experienced a camp environment and we were very new to Colorado. We were impressed by how much everyone was just happy to be present. We learned from the camp nurse about disabilities, medications, pressure wounds, seizures, catheters, etc. It was Wendy’s first true introduction to nursing and it became her passion.

What do you wish other people knew about Easterseals Colorado/RMV?
The people. The campers and the staff, volunteers, everyone! Just a little goes a long way. Whether it is volunteering at camp with the camp facilities or the people that attend the camp or giving in the form of donations. Every little bit makes a big difference in the campers’ experience. More than you would think.

When your friends or family find out that you are involved with Easterseals Colorado and RMV, what do they say or ask?
The answers are easy. Being at camp and helping an organization that helps those in need is very fulfilling. Everyone in our family has spent time at Rocky Mountain Village. It helps Easterseals but it also helps the individuals that give to Easterseals. Some of my favorite memories are when our three daughters were with us staying at camp for a weekend painting or doing other needed projects.

Rising Phoenix tells the inspirational stories of Paralympic athletes and explores how the Paralympic Games have become a global movement celebrating disability and perseverance.

Full Circle follows Trevor Kennison, a snowboarder who experienced a severe spinal cord injury leading to his being paralyzed. Kennison takes us on his journey of learning to navigate life and snow once again after his life changed forever.

Resurface profiles veterans suffering from PTSD who find healing and hope through the therapeutic power of surfing.

The Push follows Grant Korgan, who, despite being paralyzed from the waist down, embarks on a grueling journey to the South Pole, demonstrating incredible determination and strength.

Zion is a short documentary that focuses on Zion Clark, a young wrestler born without legs, showcasing his relentless drive and the support system that helps him succeed.

El límite infinito chronicles the life of Jean Maggi, an athlete who overcame the limitations of polio to participate in extreme sports, highlighting his achievements and contributions to adaptive sports advancement.

My Beautiful Broken Brain follows Lotje Sodderland as she rebuilds her life and sense of self after a severe brain hemorrhage, exploring themes of identity, memory, and neuroplasticity.

The Weight of Water captures the journey of Erik Weihenmayer, a blind adventurer, as he kayaks the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon, illustrating his profound resilience and spirit. WATCH HERE.

Endless Abilities take us along with four best friends travel across the country documenting their experiences with adaptive sports for people with disabilities like themselves, breaking boundaries and achieving common goals along the way. WATCH HERE.

As of July 15, 2024, most of these films can be watched on Netflix unless otherwise noted.

By Mitzi Tolman
(from Colorado Post-Polio Organization Newsletter – Connections Spring 2024)

Visiting friends and relatives can be stressful and exhausting, but with some thoughtful planning you can make a visit from your aging relative more relaxing and comfortable.

First prepare your house: remove items so there is room for them to get around without having to step over things and that they have room to maneuver their walker or chair as needed. Get a shower stool or lift for the toilet. Place a non-slip mat in the shower and remove any rugs that could be tripped over or slipped on. Get decent quality suction cup handrails for the bathroom and shower. Many local senior centers will have shower chairs and other items you can check out for the length of your visit.

Give them the priority parking spot that is easy to get in and out of. Make sure the walkway is clear of snow, ice, dirt, or other times that can cause a fall. Offer an arm or other help, many stairs do not have adequate handrails so be aware of areas that an assistant might be needed.

Help get any suitcases out of the vehicle and to the room where they will be staying. If you are a “shoes off” house pick up non- slip shoe covers, as many people rely on their shoes for stability.

Make their room comfortable with an easy to access outlet for them to plug in their devices or medical equipment, a heating pad or blanket for aches. Provide a nightlight in the bathroom and hallway. Put a chair in the room so they have a hard place to sit while putting on socks and shoes. When visiting, make sure you have a chair that isn’t too low or soft so they can get up easily, provide a lap blanket to keep warm as they sit.

For outings, plan ahead. Do you need to take your relative’s car with a handicap license plate or do they have a hanging one you can transfer to your vehicle? Can you drop them by the door and then park? Bring a chair for them, especially for outdoor activities. Is there a mobility cart available at the large venue or shopping center? If you are in handicap seating, how many relatives can be seated with or near them? Always make sure to allow plenty of time to arrive and leave.

With some forward thinking and planning you can enjoy your visits and continue to build memories together.

Providing programs and supports that enhance quality of life and create opportunities for greater independence for its clients.

Easterseals Colorado perseveres in providing vital supports and services to individuals living with disabilities and their families in Colorado. We provide adult day programs which provide community exploration, learning experiences, outdoor recreation, while promoting a healthy lifestyle to adults living a wide range of disabilities and skill levels. We provide employment services through training and guidance that clients need to prepare for and enter the workforce so they can earn money to live and thrive. We offer recreation programs including summer camp and respite care, which provides a much needed break for families who have a child or adult with a disability. Our Disability Benefit Services assist individuals with disabilities to acquire income, health insurance, and other basic needs to stabilize their lives, health and living situations. And there is more we have to offer … go to eastersealscolorado.org to learn more.

Working together to promote independence for all Coloradans.

“Easterseals Colorado has been a true blessing for our family. Our daughter, Kim, was born with a genetic disorder that affects many parts of the body including the heart, kidneys, and lungs, and it delays growth and development, impacts intellectual ability, and can cause low muscle tone and seizures. Overwhelmed and confused we sought out help and direction from Easterseals. They offered our family respite and guided us to the programs that would be most beneficial for Kim. Throughout Kim’s life, we have relied on them for so many programs and services.

We will always be grateful for the services that our family received. Raising a child with special needs can sometimes be difficult, but knowing there is an organization like Easterseals Colorado that is by your side to help, whether it be to answer questions, or provide such amazing opportunities for people with disabilities, makes life just a bit easier.”

As you are counting your blessings this year, Easterseals Colorado asks that you consider contributing an annual gift. Your gift of $100, $250, $500, or $1,000 – or whatever you can afford – will enable Easterseals Colorado services to continue to provide and expand programs to individuals living with disabilities and their families.

When you make a donation, you help strengthen our mission to ensure everyone — regardless of age or ability — is fully included and empowered.

Donate online at eastersealscolorado.org.

Every November, we celebrate National Family Caregivers Month (NFCM) to recognize and honor those caring for a loved one, and to raise awareness, educate, and support for caregivers across the country. From full-time family caregivers to neighbors who have volunteered to pick up groceries for the person who lives next door, a caregiver can play so many important roles– but what all caregivers have in common is that they take time and energy from their own lives to care for someone else who needs their help. 

The 2021 theme is #CaregiverAnd, which encourages caregivers to celebrate the other roles, activities, and passions that enrich their lives. Caregivers are a critical part of the Easterseals community and they’ve gone above and beyond to serve our community, especially this past year. Join Easterseals Colorado in celebrating NFCM this month! 

Our program, the Colorado Respite Coalition (CRC), is proud to work year-round as a vital statewide resource for caregivers of individuals of all ages and all health care needs. Working with a coordinated coalition of community partners, we promote awareness of and access to respite care services and resources that help improve the quality of life for caregivers and the individuals they care for.

In Colorado alone, there are an estimated 584,000 caregivers (AARP). Caregivers spend an average of 24.4 hours per week providing care and six out of ten caregivers are also employed. Family caregivers suffer from health risks including physical and emotional strain, chronic conditions and for older caregivers there is a higher mortality rate due to caregiving-related stress. 

Respite is a short break for caregivers, the opportunity for a caregiver to step away, knowing their loved one is well cared for, by bringing in professional care. We all need a break sometimes, and respite provides a chance to recharge. Additionally, respite can provide peace of mind and help to manage stress levels, which can lead to growth in personal identity, chances to pursue new activities and maintenance of vital personal relationships. Respite for the person receiving the care is also beneficial. It offers chances to socialize and meet new people, opportunities to learn new skills and try new activities and respite can reduce chances of accidents and hospitalizations.

The following quote, from a Colorado family, illustrates the importance of respite:

“We are relieved to have someone care for our child that understands his needs. Our provider is doing a fantastic job. We can leave our toddler in her care and not worry. Respite care is such a far-reaching benefit for a family like ours. We knew that having a child would be a challenge since we do not have extended family nearby. When we discovered that our child has special needs, we really didn’t know how we were going to make it, but we are making it – one day at a time. And things are improving. The service has saved our marriage. We are so thankful.”

– David, Silverthorne (2 year old son) – In home respite care

The #CaregiverAnd theme ties back to the importance of respite and the importance of self-care to prevent caregiver burnout and depression. What are your passions? What are your interests? Outside of caregiving, what is it that makes up who you are and enriches your life? Being a caregiver is incredibly important, but it’s important to not lose sight of who you are. Taking a break from caregiving and spending time on the activities you love, that make you who you are, is incredibly important.

Sign the petition to honor caregivers today – Click here to add your name.

President Biden Proclaims November 2021 as National Family Caregivers Month – Click to read.

10 Tips for Family Caregivers from the Caregiver Action Network – Click to read.

Please visit our website at www.eastersealscolorado.org to see the various programs and services we offer for you as a caregiver, and for those you are caring for that will give you the respite you need and deserve. Our program, Colorado Respite Coalition, is an extremely helpful resource so make sure you visit their website as well at www.coloradorespitecoalition.org.