For Many, Camp Fairlee is Spelled “R-E-L-I-E-F”

Mark (center) is a loving, funny, happy person and happens to have autism. However, some of the behaviors associated with his autism, like repetition and a regimented schedule, can be exhausting and stressful for his parents, Tom and Sally. “The shared responsibility of raising Mark is frequently exhausting and stressful. One cannot imagine living this day after day unless they actually experience it. Camp Fairlee provides a needed respite for people raising someone like Mark" say Tom. Luckily, for at least one week of the year, they get a break from caregiving and enjoy a full night’s sleep thanks to Easterseals Camp Fairlee.

Mark has many wonderful qualities. He is full of love and incapable of hating anyone. He judges nobody and has a sense of humor. There is something special about a 31-year-old who will never lose the innocence of childhood. —Tom, Mark's father 

Tom and Sally have been able to experience trips they would not be able to enjoy fully with Mark. In the past, they have gone to Austin and San Antonio and this year went to Seattle and hiked in two national parks nearby, something that would be impossible to do with Mark.

Without Camp Fairlee we would not be able to go on vacation. We wouldn’t be able to get away from the constant caregiving. We would always be stressed out. Fairlee is so important to us because some days caregiving is just exhausting. Respite is very important.

Mark’s parents are comfortable leaving him at camp knowing he will be treated in a respectful and caring way. They also know he is having a blast in the pool and on the zipline. In fact, according to Tom, Mark wakes up early the day he is going to camp and puts on his bathing suit and starts asking to go swimming. This year, Mark formed a very deep and meaningful bond with his counselor, Christopher, which helped his parents enjoy their time with even more ease.

“Mark’s counselor, Christopher, treated Mark with respect and gentle care allowing us to vacation with confidence knowing he would be happy and safe,” Tom says. “It allowed us to step away from conforming our lives to Mark's relentless needs and experience things we would otherwise not be able to do. It also was a wonderful, fun-filled time for Mark. He did lots of activities that were fun and well-thought-out. He really enjoyed his stay. A true win-win for all involved.”

Easter Seal’s Camp Fairlee outside of Chestertown, Maryland, is the only camp in the region that provides a typical residential camp experience for children and adults with disabilities year-round. Fairlee offers week-long camp sessions throughout the summer, Travel Trips throughout the year and weekend respite/retreat programs from August through May. Learn more about Camp Fairlee at www.de.easterseals.com/fairlee.