Fundraising Legacy Creates Endless Opportunities for Amputees

BY MARTINE LEPINE

What began as an Association to assist war amputee veterans returning from the First World War has expanded over the years from assisting war amputees — whom they still serve today — to all amputees, including children.

Julian Telfer Wan, 26, was born a left hand amputee and grew up in The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program which provides financial assistance for artificial limbs and adaptive devices, as well as peer support. Julian also attended regional CHAMP seminars where “Champs” and their parents learn about the latest in artificial limbs, dealing with teasing and bullying, and parenting an amputee child.

“The War Amps support has meant that I’ve been fitted with devices so that I can take part in a variety of activities, such as riding my bike, kayaking, weightlifting and playing the trombone,” says Julian. “They’ve also given me encouragement and the confidence to succeed.” Ten-year-old Audrey Donohue, born a right arm amputee, was recently fitted with a baseball device. “The device allows Audrey to hold the bat with two hands and swing with more strength and control,” says mom, Meghan. “The support from The War Amps means that Audrey can take part in activities just like any other child.” The War Amps receives no government grants and its programs are possible through public support of the Key Tag and Address Label Service. The Key Tag Service was launched in 1946 so that returning war amputee veterans could not only work for competitive wages, but also provide a service to Canadians that would generate funds for the Association’s many programs, including CHAMP. The Key Tag Service continues to employ amputees and people with disabilities, and has returned more than 1.5 million sets of lost keys to their owners.

Each key tag has a confidentially coded number. If you lose your keys, the finder can call the toll-free number on the back of the tag or place them in any mailbox in Canada and The War Amps will return them to you by courier, free of charge.

“We’d like to thank the public for helping to make this service a success,” says War Amps spokesperson Rob Larman, himself a graduate of the CHAMP Program. “Your support funds essential programs for all amputees across Canada, including children and veterans.”

Julian at a War Amps CHAMP Seminar in 2006 (left) and today (right).

Audrey with her baseball device. Donors may also choose to leave a gift or charitable bequest in their wills, whether as a first-time donation or as a way to continue their support of the Association’s work that was so meaningful to them during their lifetime.

A family member of one of these donors wrote to The War Amps to explain the reason behind his gift: “My uncle was a very special man with a generous heart and he couldn’t think of a worthier cause than helping child amputees. He knew you would use this money well to bring smiles to children’s faces and make their challenges easier.”

Another wrote of a similar gift, “Barbara knew the many ways that The War Amps helps child and adult amputees. She felt strongly that her gift would make a positive difference in their lives.”

Larman concludes that The War Amps is grateful for the support of Canadians in any form. “With so many charities to choose from, we do not take this support for granted, and we work continuously to ensure that these funds are put to the very best use.”

For more information, or to order key tags, visit waramps.ca or call toll-free 1 800 250-3030.