Meet Nicholas Siebert:
Camp Meridian Camper

Stronghearts sponsored two campers complete with supplies to attend Camp Meridian over Columbus Day Weekend in the fall of 2009.  This is a special camp for children with heart disease located in New Hampshire.   Camp Meridian's mission is to provide a challenging adventure of self-discovery through a series of unique, fun-filled, guided activities allowing the children to realize their own untapped potential. Many of the children come from Maine and other New England states to attend. 

Nicholas Siebert (11) was was  one of the campers we sponsored.  Nicholas has Double Outlet Right Ventricle with a complete interruption of his aortic arch.  He has had 4 open heart surgeries, the most recent being in October.  Nicholas commented that this last surgery was very difficult as he had to stay home for a month and was unable to play basket ball or baseball during this time.   Ms. Siebert states that Nicholas plays on the Allstar baseball team and is an A-B student.  He is in 6th grade.

This was Nicholas' third time going to Camp Meridian.  Camp Meridian not only provided Nicholas with a chance to share stories and scars with other children with heart defects, but provided his parents respite, as nurses and doctors are available to manage all the children's medical needs.  Nicholas feels understood and empowered after these weekends.  "I wish I could go twice a year" he said with enthusiasm.  Nicholas keeps in touch with his friends throughout the year.  He is a very compassionate and caring friend, according to Ms. Siebert.  Not at all shy, he reaches out to other children and invites them to play.  He lives everyday to its fullest and hopes to go to Camp Meridian for many years to come.

 Stronghearts 2010