The War Amps 2015 address labels are being mailed to B.C. residents starting this week. The theme, "Setting the Bar High," reflects how child amputees can do whatever they set their mind to.
Mark, 17, is a right leg amputee due to cancer and a member of The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program. In a letter accompanying the address labels, he writes about how CHAMP has helped him over the years.
"The wonderful people at CHAMP have funded my artificial limbs, answered many questions, introduced me to other amputees at CHAMP seminars, and most importantly, taught me to set the bar high as I overcome the challenges of amputation," says Mark.
Although losing a limb has changed Mark's life forever, it has allowed him to be a role model and part of The War Amps philosophy of, "amputees helping amputees." Mark is now a Junior Counsellor at CHAMP seminars, where he provides advice and encouragement to younger amputees.
Sent as a thank you to supporters of The War Amps Key Tag Service, address labels are not just for envelopes. They can be used to identify items like books and for filling out name and address information on forms.
The War Amps receives no government grants. Its programs are possible through public support of the Key Tag and Address Label Service. For more information, or to order address labels, visit waramps.ca or call toll-free 1 800 250-3030.
2015 marks the 40th anniversary of CHAMP. Generations of child amputees have benefited from The War Amps financial assistance for artificial limbs, regional seminars and peer support. From the time they are infants through to adulthood, children grow up knowing the CHAMP Program will be there every step of the way.