When Da’Marion Bland was two-and-a-half years old he was diagnosed with autism, ADHD, juvenile arthritis, and a sleeping disorder. Now, he is ten years old and has been attending Camp Woodchuck for the past five summers. “Since he’s been going to Camp he sees himself as unique instead of different,” says Da’Marion’s mother, Margo. Da’Marion lives with his mother and younger brother Ja’lin.
At Camp, Da’Marion is very involved and a great helper. His room lead, Raven, says, “Da’Marion is just a happy kid. He is energetic and remembers all the staff members’ names. He likes to talk about his YouTube channel and loves to hang out with his friends.” Camp is a safe place where Da’Marion can be himself. “He looks forward to going to Camp every year because there are kids just like him and feels like he isn’t judged,” says Margo. “That alone makes me the proudest mom in the world!”
