Saturday the 8th of February will definitely be a memorable day for the guests of our partner psychiatric institution. The Youth always try to give our guests memorable experience and a sense of adventure during our activities. As they rarely go out of their hospitals, we often use our creativity to make the best of their outings with us. The guests went accompanied by the volunteers to watch “Dr. Dolittle”. The magical movie left infinite joy and imagination in the guest’s eyes, and definitely was a change of scenario from their usual home. Through this activity, I learned that every opportunity given can create tons of magic and hope in the eyes of our guests.
Anthony el Dada, Volontaire libanais
Guests with Down syndrome weekend camp in Chabrouh
I have been a volunteer with the Order of Malta in Chabrouh camps for four years now. Today, I can confidently say that every single camp I attended has had a big impact on my life. I am so grateful that I now have a broader understanding of different kind of disabilities, and I hope I can work one day to raise awareness and improve the overall quality of life of people with physical and mental disabilities.
At the down syndrome camp, my private guest was Audrey, a young woman who was the light of the camp. She impressed everyone as she is a professional swimmer. Something people wouldn’t expect from someone who has autism and down syndrome at the same time. Interacting with her was challenging, contrarily to the other guests. Indeed, people with down syndrome are often particularly affectionate and sensitive. Audrey, however, doesn’t even make much eye contact. It was a whole new way of communicating but I believe this is what makes her so special. After a while, she got used to my presence, she let me braid her beautiful long ginger hair and would follow me wherever I moved. I was so happy with her trust. She absolutely loved music and got really excited when speakers were on, or when DJ Joe started playing, which made us all really happy. We also sang “the wheels on the bus go round and round” all day long, a repetitive habit she is sticking to!
Overall, based on how many times I saw her laugh or looking at me, Audrey had a great week-end. This camp was full of energy, music and laughs, which is a fun and joyful atmosphere to be around for volunteers and guests. I am glad I know Audrey now, and I will visit her soon, as I found out she is my neighbor!
Christina Achkar, Lebanese Volunteer
Before even arriving to Chabrouh, we had heard from many Lebanese that the camp for guests with Down Syndrome was their favorite, and that it will be amazing. Therefore, we were all very excited and truly looking forward to the camp and its happy and special atmosphere. After preparing the center on Thursday night, I couldn’t wait to see the guests the next morning. My guest Raymond, was a very old, adorable man who not only needed a wheelchair, but also needed assistance while eating or showering. Not like most of the other Down Syndrome guests and probably due to his age, he didn’t enjoy participating in loud activities such as dancing to loud music. He liked sitting next to whatever was happening while cuddling. However, this didn’t stop me from enjoying all the well-organized activities the entertainment team prepared. Even though Raymond couldn’t talk nor walk, I was overwhelmed by the love he shared and the good vibes he could spread. Thanks to him, all the other guests and volunteers, have been filled with joy and love, which will hopefully last for a long time!
Caroline Ow, German Caravan Volunteer
