Hannah Finds Confidence and Community at Victory Junction

For Hannah, growing up with spina bifida and using a wheelchair often meant confronting stigmas and perceived limitations. That all changed when she attended her first camp session at Victory Junction.

“People assume inability,” Hannah explained, reflecting on her experience. “But at camp, you learn you can be independent, make friends, be a leader – camp teaches you there are no limitations.”

Watch Hannah’s Story here.

Victory Junction offered Hannah a safe, fun, and encouraging environment where disability didn’t define her experiences. At Camp, she discovered a community where everyone understood and embraced each other’s differences.

“To spend a week without being asked what’s wrong, or why you’re in a wheelchair, that’s powerful,” Hannah shared. “It really shows you the strength of community.”

Her favorite camp activity, archery, where she often hit bullseyes, symbolizes just how sharp Hannah’s life focus became through her Victory Junction experiences. Not only did Camp nurture her independence and confidence, but it also empowered her to break barriers outside of Camp. In fact, her leadership has been recognized on ESPN’s ESPY Awards stage.

“Kids with disabilities need to see that they can do things nobody has done before,” Hannah emphasized. “I was the first Billie Jean King Youth Leadership Award winner with a disability. Camp made me believe those things were possible.”

For families and individuals considering Victory Junction, Hannah offers encouragement and reassurance.

“Just come. If you’re nervous, try a family camp first or visit,” she urged. “The staff at Victory Junction would love to help you understand what camp looks like, medical treatments, and most importantly, how much fun you’ll have.”

Discover how Victory Junction can change your life or the life of someone you love. Learn more at The Camper Zone: www.VictoryJunction.org/CamperZone.