The Boulder The Better

From July 16 to 21, 2018, over 250 excited campers, counselors, and nurses from 43 U.S. states, and 4 countries descended on the University of Colorado at Boulder for the 2018 Youth Rally. This annual life-changing summer camp provides a safe and supportive environment for young 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 is proud to have been one of only two Platinum-level sponsors.

The week was filled with times of reflection, education and deep connection. Many of the volunteer counselors were once campers themselves and act as invaluable role models to the younger participants. Each camper attended a number of small group sessions with others their own age, gender, diagnosis, and management technique, allowing them to bond with peers dealing with similar challenges.

"For campers and counselors alike, there's nothing that emotionally matches the experience of being around people just like you," says Emily Mallar, Vice President of Youth Rally.

Even the fun activities proved to be healing. On a trip to Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park, some campers revealed their scars and pouches in public for the first time. A twelve-year-old girl with a central line since birth, which prevented her from swimming in the ocean, experienced waves for the first time in Elitch's "Commotion Ocean"—her dream come true! Later, all campers had a chance to shine in the talent and fashion shows.

Inspiration is woven throughout the week including powerful motivational speakers. On Tuesday, fashion model Jearlean Taylor spoke about overcoming self-esteem issues as a childhood cancer survivor with two ostomies. She now owns her own modeling agency that focuses on models who are not stereotypical. And on Friday, powerlifter Chelsea Wrzesinski talked about her ostomy journey that took her from depression and substance abuse, to honoring her body. Both speakers also volunteered as counselors for the entire week.

The pinnacle of Youth Rally is always the end-of-week dance. This year's theme was "The Wild Wild Western," and cowboy hats were definitely in fashion. Campers gussied up that afternoon in the new beauty shop, and many chose outfits to wear and take home in the Youth Rally "dress shop."

"For some of these kids, it's their prom, and for that reason we go all out," says Emily.

Photo booth snapshots captured the magic, and are sure to be treasured all year long. The next morning phone numbers were exchanged, tears were shed, and campers went home promising to see each other again next summer!

The 2019 Youth Rally is planned for July 8-13 in Seattle, Washington. For more information, to volunteer, or to sponsor a camper, visit youthrally.org.