St. Luke's Sponsors Camp for Stroke Survivors & Caregivers
Posted on Aug 29, 2016
By St. Luke's, Duluth, MN
A stroke happens every 40 seconds in the United States. It can be a life
changing event that affects not only the person who suffered the stroke,
but their caregivers. When going through such a life-changing experience
it’s nice to have others to turn to. That’s why St. Luke’s
is sponsoring northern Minnesota’s first ever Retreat and Refresh
Stroke Camp September 16-18 at Big Sandy Lodge & Resort in McGregor, MN.
Retreat and Refresh Stroke Camp is a national organization that got its
start as a weekend retreat in 2004 and is now offered in cities throughout
the United States. It gives stroke patients and their caregivers a chance
to get away from the stresses of their daily lives and bond with each
other and others going through similar experiences, while providing educational
opportunities, pampering and fun.
“Caregivers and stroke patients can become overwhelmed, stressed
and depressed by all the changes caused by the stroke. They need a chance
to get away from it all and know they’re not in this alone,”
said Brett Osborne, PT, Director of Rehab at St. Luke’s. “This
camp offers wonderful opportunities for everyone to relax and take a break.”
St. Luke’s is proud to help bring the camp, which is like any other
summer camp, to the region. There’s swimming, arts and crafts, singing,
fishing, bonfires, canoeing, paddle boating and games. “It shows
people there’s still a lot they can do,” Osborne added. “It’s
incredible and inspiring to see how the stroke camp can make such a difference
in people’s lives.”
The sponsorships by St. Luke’s, Genentech and Northland Orthotics
and Prosthetics help to make the camp more affordable. The cost is $125
is for each adult to attend. If necessary, there are scholarships available
to help cover that fee. Spots are still open for patients and their caregivers.
To learn more about the camp and to register, visit
www.slhduluth.com/strokecamp or call 309.688.5450.