My name is Melinda Walker and I am a sophomore at Legend High School in Parker, Colorado. I am a burn victim. I was burned 3 years ago due to an accident involving a treadmill. I was running on a treadmill when I fell, blacked out and got pinned underneath the treadmill while it was running at a very high speed. I suffered 3rd degree burns to my inner thigh and stomach and lower degree burns to my arm. When I went to the Children's Hospital Colorado and saw Dr. Moulton, I found out that I needed skin grafts. I had surgery on my birthday! (What a wonderful birthday present!) Dr. Moulton took a skin graft from my outer thigh and placed it on my stomach and thigh so I could heal. I had so many bandages that would always fall off and was in a full leg cast for approximately 3 months. After I got out of my cast, I got the exciting news that I would wear compression pants for 2 years! My favorite style was the capri pants with the bright neon colors.
In addition to my family's support, Burn Camp was the best part of my healing and I was so lucky to be able to go. It helped me to overcome my fear of having a scar and being different. I met so many cool and awesome people - most of whom I still talk to today! One of which is actually my best friend and we always try to hang out as much as possible. I have had many opportunities to go horseback riding and hiking. My first year I went hiking with some really cool and strong girls who supported me through the hike the whole way. I overcame my fear of heights by rock climbing. It was so cool to see the many kids that were like me and who weren't scared of showing their scars. Due to the support I get at camp, I attend both the summer and winter camps every year.
I am so excited and thankful to be a Children's Hospital Colorado Ambassador this year! I hope to share my story this year with as many people as possible to raise money for kids like me who need camp to help them with their healing. Your donations help kids like me find strength and courage. When you have burns like mine, medical costs are high. To me, camp is just as important as seeing the doctor. I'm raising money to help other kids like me to attend camp and experience the healing and support that I have been able to have over the past 3 years.
Thank you so much for your support!