Chilliwack – As the year comes to an end, Stefanie de Koning, 19, of Chilliwack, looks back with appreciation on the support she has received from The War Amps.
Stefanie is a left foot amputee and grew up in The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program, which provides financial assistance for the cost of artificial limbs and recreational devices. She has also attended regional CHAMP seminars where “Champs” and their parents learn about the latest in artificial limbs, dealing with teasing and bullying, and parenting an amputee child.
“I attended this year’s CHAMP Seminar where I shared my knowledge and advice with the younger amputees. These seminars provide child amputees and their parents with support so that they’re not alone,” says Stefanie. “I visited Vimy Ridge a couple of years ago where I laid a wreath on behalf of The War Amps to pay tribute to the war amputees who started this amazing organization.”
The War Amps entered its second century of service this year, and there is still much to do to ensure amputees, like Stefanie, have the artificial limbs or devices they need. “The War Amps receives no government grants, but with the public’s continued support of the Key Tag and Address Label Service, our vital programs for amputees will carry on long into the future,” says Danita Chisholm, Executive Director of the CHAMP Program.
