For seven-year-old Audrey Otis, being a part of The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program has meant connecting with a support system that has a longstanding legacy in Canada.
Audrey recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of the CHAMP Program with peers from across the Atlantic provinces at the organization’s CHAMP Seminar in Halifax. The seminar was a special moment for her to meet other kids with amputations and see that she is not alone.
Born without her right arm below the elbow, Audrey was enrolled in the CHAMP Program when she was just nine months old.
“Audrey’s amputation has never slowed her down,” says Mary LeBlanc, Audrey’s mom. “She faces every day with determination, creativity and a bright smile.”
As a “Champ,” Audrey is eligible for financial assistance for artificial limbs and adaptive devices, as well as peer support through the CHAMP Program. CHAMP was established in 1975 by the war amputee veterans who founded The War Amps and continues today thanks to donations from the public to the organization’s Key Tag Service.
“Thanks to donations to The War Amps, Audrey has received prosthetic arms that help her reach new milestones,” LeBlanc says. “She was recently fitted with a prosthetic arm that makes it easier for her to grab and release objects. She also has a prosthetic arm that supports her in activities like doing the bridge in gymnastics and swinging on the monkey bars at the park. These tools have opened up a world of possibilities for Audrey.”
In addition to providing life-changing funding for these artificial arms, LeBlanc says CHAMP has given Audrey confidence, support, and connection through War Amps events like seminars, which are unique opportunities for families to share experiences and learn about the resources available to them.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to every donor. You’ve truly made a difference in our daughter’s life.”
The War Amps receives no government grants; its programs are made possible through the public’s support of the Key Tag Service. For more information, or to order key tags, visit waramps.ca or call toll-free 1 800 250-3030.
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