At ASCCA, we are lucky to meet some of the most amazing people on this planet. And if we are lucky enough, we get the chance to meet someone who understands us…someone that we immediately connect with. For Amber Cotney, our Program and CIT Director, this is what she found in Chip Stewart.
Ms. Cotney and Chip have been friends for over 15 years. They first met during one of her early summers here at Camp. They only get to see each other at ASCCA twice a year for a summer and weekend session, but their friendship lasts year round.
Ms. Cotney shared one of her favorite stories with Chip. He had not been to Camp for a few years, and she was worried he had forgotten her. On check-in day, everyone knew how nervous she had been about it. The staff let her know that he was there so she could go see him. She excitedly went to see him and was pleasantly surprised. Chip had picked fresh flowers from home, placed them in a Dollar General plastic bag for safe keeping and brought them all the way to Camp just for her.
She explained that her Camp friendship with Chip is genuine. They each feel a sincere love for one another that shows. Their interactions are special to watch because you can see their lasting connection in their smiles, sibling-like discussions and the constant laughter they share.
Without Camp ASCCA, Ms. Cotney and Chip would have never met, and been able to grow a lifelong friendship. At Camp, we are so very blessed to meet our amazing campers, and hopefully create beautiful friendships like Ms. Cotney and Chip have made. Our campers aren’t just a mere memory in the vast amount we have in our lifetime. They are core moments held in our hearts that remind us how to live and love.
