Rebecca's summer vacation from school is drawing to a close. She has spent many of her days this summer having fun at the YMCA. Rebecca has been involved with the YMCA through their after-school program since we moved to Tamarac. During the school year, that program is located at her school; a special school specifically for children who have serious handicaps. But, during the summer months the YMCA program from her school is integrated with the program that takes place at one of the area middle schools. Rebecca gets a whole summer of fun and play interaction with other kids, disabled and able-bodied.
One of her favorite YMCA events is bowling. Rebecca even has her own bowling shirt. Yesterday, the YMCA took all the kids out for a day of bowling. She loved it as was demonstrated by her squeals and smiles when I got home and asked her about her day.
When Rebecca bowls, she uses a gutter guard, but rarely has to rely on it. Since she cannot walk, she used a ball launcher that is positioned next to her wheelchair. She then uses her right hand to push the ball down the launcher and toward the pins. Rebecca lands strikes, spares, and all kinds of combinations. And like anyone who is excited about their sport, she squeals and screams with satisfaction and delight when the pins fall down.
Next time you are at a bowling ally and you hear some high-pitched squeals, check it out. You never know, it may just be Rebecca enjoying a day at the ally as she travels with her parents.
Saturday, July 29, 2006
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