3 Siblings Have Spina Bifida. A Camp in Kentucky Gives Them a Place to Be Kids Without Judgement (Exclusive)

**Centre for Courageous Kids Offers Unforgettable Experiences for Families of Children with Disabilities**

In the heart of Scottsville, Kentucky, the Centre for Courageous Kids (CCK) provides a unique and fully accessible haven for children with disabilities and lifelong illnesses. Spanning an impressive 168 acres, this camp has dedicated itself to offering complimentary programmes that enrich the lives of these children and their families since it opened its doors in 2008. CCK has welcomed over 45,000 campers from 46 states and 13 countries, catering to more than 100 different medical diagnoses.

One of the families who have benefitted from the camp’s offerings is the McClanahan family from Corydon, Indiana. The McClanahan siblings—Sara, Lara, and Caleb—were all born with spina bifida, a condition that occurs when the spinal column fails to fuse correctly during gestation. Their mother, Donna McClanahan, describes how the camp plays a crucial role in their lives: “When we come across the hill and see those blue roofs, it’s like, ‘Oh my gosh, there’s nowhere we’d rather be,’” she recalls.

The annual Spina Bifida Family Retreat, where the McClanahan family plans to attend, epitomises the spirit of inclusivity and fun that CCK promotes. Here, children can divert their attention away from accommodation needs, allowing them to revel in the joys of childhood alongside peers who share similar challenges. Donna explains the simplicity that the camp provides: “Everything was easy for us. We don’t get to go anywhere that’s easy,” underscoring the profound relief that CCK offers.

Each of the siblings has their own distinct experience of spina bifida. Seventeen-year-old Sara, who utilises an arm crutch and braces, is both an avid reader and a dedicated volunteer, running a ministry that collects donations for a local women’s resource centre. The summer camp experience has proven transformative for her, marking a significant step in overcoming personal challenges. “Going to independent camp was a huge growth step for Sara,” Donna states, highlighting the nurturing environment provided by CCK.

Lara, who is fourteen, relies on a wheelchair for transportation and has undergone several major surgeries since being welcomed into the McClanahan family. Despite her medical history, she displays a remarkable sense of independence and curiosity. Her mother affectionately notes her knack for becoming deeply engrossed in new subjects before sharing her newfound knowledge with the family. When asked about her favourite camp activity, Lara enthusiastically declares her love for archery, expressing the pure joy that comes from hitting the bullseye.

Caleb, also fourteen, exhibits a playful spirit and boundless energy. Although he walks with two arm crutches, his mother remarks that he manoeuvres with remarkable agility, describing him as someone who “runs with them.” He enjoys solving puzzles, building Lego creations, and volunteering at an animal shelter, where he helps care for the animals. At camp, Caleb looks forward to meeting new friends and making memories in the swimming pool, sharing, “I want to tell other kids that there will be activities, and I’d tell them they’d meet new friends with all types of disabilities.”

The supportive environment fostered by CCK allows the McClanahan children to flourish, with camp staff prioritising individual strengths and interests. “My kids are totally different in personality, and the CCK staff take the time to figure that out,” Donna explains, reflecting on the personalised approach of the staff. Darren Dannelly, the president and CEO of CCK, echoes this sentiment, stating that understanding a child’s individuality goes far beyond their diagnosis.

At CCK, each child is embraced for who they are, with staff members committed to uncovering what brings them joy and curiosity. Dannelly highlights the camp’s mission: “At CCK, every child is known, celebrated, and included as an individual.” Families like the McClanahans can experience quality time together without the burden of medical expenses, as the camp remains entirely free of charge for participants.

This generous support is crucial for families managing the additional financial pressures that come with raising children with special needs. “For one weekend, families like the McClanahans get to just be a family,” Dannelly states. Throughout their time at CCK, children who often hear about limitations are given the opportunity to explore their capabilities in a nurturing environment.

By fostering a sense of community, acceptance, and fun, the Centre for Courageous Kids continues to create memorable experiences that affirm the worth and potential of every child, regardless of the challenges they may face. The McClanahan family’s story is just one of many that reflect the camp’s ethos—encouraging every child to explore who they are and what they can achieve.