News Conference - Photo/Filming Opportunities - Day 1 - War Amps "Champs" Celebrate 40th Anniversary at Fredericton Child Amputee Seminar

FREDERICTON, July 10, 2015 /CNW/ - Nine-year-old Ella Barnett, of Fredericton, was born a right arm amputee, and Jack Sturgeon, 9, also of Fredericton, is a right hand amputee. Ella and Jack will show how their amputation does not prevent them from living a full and active life. Ella will demonstrate how she uses a myoelectric arm for everyday tasks, as well as the recreational devices she uses for play and kayaking. Jack will demonstrate the bike adaptation he uses to hold onto the handlebar, as well as the device he uses to play the drums. They will be joined by other young "Champs" from across the Atlantic provinces, who will also show the various artificial limbs they use to achieve their goals.

This year marks the 40^th anniversary of the CHAMP Program, which has provided generations of child amputees with financial assistance for artificial limbs, regional seminars and peer support.

When:	Friday, July 10 – 10:30 a.m.
Where:	Delta Fredericton, 225 Woodstock Road Governor's Ballroom A

Running July 10 to 12, the Seminar will be a life-changing experience for Champs and their parents, covering everything from raising a child amputee, to dealing with teasing and staring, to seeing the latest developments in artificial limbs.

Media are welcome to attend the following sessions, during the weekend. Interviews with the Champs can be arranged at any time.

Saturday, July 11
8:50 a.m.	–	PLAYSAFE! (Victoria Room) Champs learn how they can become Safety Ambassadors and teach other children how to PLAYSAFE.
10:15 a.m.	–	Healthy Living for Arm Amputees (Grand Ballroom A and B) Arm amputees learn how to lead healthy lives, discover a multitude of daily living aids and look at new ways to accomplish everyday activities.
10:15 a.m.	–	Healthy Living for Leg Amputees (Governor's Ballroom A) Leg amputees learn how to lead healthy lives and look at new ways to accomplish everyday activities.
1:00 p.m.	–	Feature presentation "Life as a Champ" (Grand Ballroom A and B) CHAMP Graduate Naomi Tappin, is a left leg amputee. She will speak about embracing and overcoming the challenges of growing up as an amputee.
1:30 p.m.	–	Amputees in Action! (Grand Ballroom A and B) Champs demonstrate their artificial limbs and devices.
Sunday, July 12
8:45 a.m	–	"What Bugs Me" (Grand Ballroom) Open forum session where young Champs talk about and learn to handle difficult issues they encounter like teasing, staring and "too many questions."

SOURCE War Amps

Danita Chisholm, Executive Director, Communications, 1 [phone]