See You in Seattle!

From July 8 to 13, 2019, excited campers, counselors, and nurses from all over the U.S. will converge at the University of Washington in Seattle for the 2019 Youth Rally. This annual, life-changing summer camp provides a safe and supportive environment for people ages 11 to 17 living with conditions affecting their bowel and/or bladder systems. Though packed with fun, Youth Rally's ultimate goal is to encourage self-confidence and independent living. Hollister Incorporated is proud to be a Platinum Sponsor.

Many Youth Rally counselors were once campers themselves. Through their own life experiences with medical and surgical challenges, counselors have firsthand knowledge of what the campers are or may be facing and can provide the needed support to promote selfconfidence and independence.

"The heart and strength of the campers is what motivates me 365 days a year to be my best self," explains Emily Mallar, Youth Rally Vice President and counselor of 17 years. "What's perhaps more awesome for me is having seen so many of these youth return year after year as they grow into incredibly amazing adults, accomplishing some incredibly amazing feats."

There are hundreds of young people like Courtney who have been encouraged by this nurturing camp. Counselor Cody Mitchem gives back to Youth Rally by speaking of its impact at conferences.

"This is the least I can do for a community of people that has helped me so much," says Cody. "Not many people my age get to speak to doctors and nurses about something like this. Not only have I learned to take better care of my Crohn's but I've also learned how to be a better person."

Youth Rally also assembles a team of their own licensed medical professionals who have experience with wound, ostomy and continence (WOC) nursing as well as those with experience in pediatrics, trauma, medical, or surgical nursing. They volunteer their time to support the campers as needed, both physically and psychosocially as an extension of the counselor team.

Managing medical conditions is only a fraction of what Youth Rally 2019 will offer. Those five days in Seattle will also be rounded out with fun. Campers will create lifetime bonds with each other through games, swimming, field trips—even a fashion show and a "prom-like" dance. Motivational speakers will also be on hand to let the campers know they are not alone.

Applications are now open for prospective campers, counselors, and medical professionals. If you know of someone who would benefit from participating in or volunteering at the Youth Rally, please encourage them to apply. Sponsorship is available for campers, but all participants are encouraged to fundraise for themselves or others.

What are you waiting for? Visit youthrally.org to learn more.

Hollister Incorporated is a proud Platinum Sponsor of Youth Rally.