The Kotowskis: Camp Happy Days Disney Trip

The annual Camp Happy Days Disney trip has come and gone. Every year Chris and I volunteer for this trip to help newly diagnosed kids or those who have relapsed forget about what they're going through and just enjoy 4 days of madness. Unfortunately, I was unable to go this year as originally there was not enough funding for the trip due to the economy. Although, by the grace of a generous donor we were able gather enough funds at the last minute to pull the trip off. I just didn't have enough time at work to be able to make it. So Chris went alone and represented the "Kotowski" name. This trip is by far harder then any week of camp. You are hitting 4 parks in 3 days...Universal and Islands of Adventure on Friday, Epcot and Magic Kingdom on Saturday and Sea World on Sunday. All the while you are getting up very early, going to bed very late and filling in all of the possible "open" time with something! This trips means so much to us because many of these kids have never been away from their parents since their lives were turned up side down, many of them have never been to a large amusement park and many will not make it back because of the bills that will be or are piling in from all of their treatments. It's huge for us to make sure that they see and do everything while being aware of their limitations. It is so rewarding to have them tell you that this is the best trip ever or for them to open up about what they're going through and the fears that they are facing and to conquer simple things like riding a ginormous roller coaster for the first time or eating food from a foreign country. I think of all the years this one was a little more special for Chris because of the amazing camper that he had. Devonte is not newly diagnosed he's actually been with Happy Days for several years now. He just under went a spinal surgery to help correct his posture due to the tumor he had a few years ago. From the moment he and Chris first met they became immediate buddies. Anytime "D" sees Chris his eyes light up and the most amazing smile comes across his face. He honestly thinks my husband hung the moon. To put it in perspective "D" was willing to pass this trip up if Chris was not going! What kid does that? They are definitely two peas in a pod and have a bond that only comes around every so often. Together with all of the kids Chris and D conquered the rain and unusually cold Florida temperatures. They all had a blast and came back with tons of funny stories and great memories.

Chris and Devonte outside of Wonder Works