CAMP JAKE :: Oxilus - an ocean moment

Oxilus AKA FreeBird

CAMP JAKE / JULY 2012 :: Sweet 6 year old Oxilus is a spitfire. He had only been at St. Vincent's for a handful of days before joining us for the January session. Being deaf, you can't just call out to him if he runs away - you have to either get his attention or run faster! After being at St. Vincent's for the 6 months, he has mellowed out, but only a bit. His energy level is through the roof for such a tiny little guy. 

At the beginning of the week, FreeBird refused to get in the water , but it didn't take too long for counselors and other campers to encourage him to embrace both the pool and the ocean. We are SO glad he did!

During these water excursions, he learned that both balloons and balls float and both can be used as flotation devices for his petite frame. These were fascinating discoveries for him. The team blew up HUGE long balloons which he held onto like a water noodle, leaning over with the balloon across this chest, tucked under his armpits. Under close supervision, he floated independently in the ocean, allowing the current to push and pull him through the water. The look of fascination combined with satisfaction on his face was priceless.

Just one of many great moments at Camp Jake.