Young Girl is a War Amps “Champ”

Seven-year-old Michaela Monsigneur is a double leg amputee, and a member of The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program. As a Champ, she receives financial assistance for artificial limbs and specialized devices, peer support from other amputees “just like me,” and the opportunity to attend regional seminars where Champs and their parents learn about amputation and access valuable resources.

Her parents Michael and Lyndsay describe how The War Amps has supported their family.

“We attended our first CHAMP Seminar when Michaela was three months old. While there was a lot of information to take in, it was also very empowering. Seeing the older child amputees really showed us that everything would be OK and that Michaela would have a great childhood.”

“Whenever we’ve reached out to The War Amps since then, they’ve always provided the help we need to make life a little bit easier for Michaela and our family. Michaela was one and a half years old when she started wearing artificial legs, and it didn’t take her long to start walking with them. She has everyday legs that she wears to school and for playing sports, as well as water legs to keep her safe on wet, slippery surfaces. Her artificial limbs are costly and need to be replaced often as she grows.”

The War Amps encourages Champs to develop a positive outlook on their amputation and to pursue any activity they desire. “Michaela’s determination and enthusiasm for life inspire everyone around her,” says Danita Chisholm, Executive Director of the CHAMP Program. “Thanks to the public’s support of The War Amps Key Tag Service, we are helping young amputees achieve their goals.”

The War Amps does not receive government grants. Its programs are made possible through the public’s support of the Key Tag Service.

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