The Amputee Coalition of America (ACA) has named its youth camp in honor of the organization’s former president & CEO, Paddy Rossbach, RN.
“Paddy was the driving force behind the creation of the youth camp,” said Dave McGill, chairman of the ACA board of directors. “The camp would not be where it is today without her tireless dedication and enthusiasm for the kids. We are proud to recognize Paddy’s contribution and leadership by naming the camp in her honor.”
Paddy Rossbach, RN
The camp, founded in 2000, is a five-day traditional summer camp experience for children ages 10-17 who have lost arms and/or legs or who were born with limb differences. The camp offers challenging activities that build campers’ confidence regardless of skill level. Since its opening, the camp has hosted more than 450 campers with limb loss or limb difference from 42 states and 3 countries.
“Paddy’s defining characteristic is her passion for whatever she touches, be it programming for kids with limb loss or limb difference or amputee peer visitation,” said Marshall Cohen, chair of the ACA development committee. “I personally experienced her impact when she reached out to me in a peer visit before my amputation to explore this difficult choice. She was sensitive, clear-headed, and inspiring in guiding me to make the right decision for myself.”
Born in England in the days leading up to World War II, Patricia “Paddy” Rossbach lost her lower left leg at the age of 6 after being struck by a military truck. Her passion for working with children began when she worked in an orphanage while waiting to attend nursing school. After completing nursing school in 1966, Rossbach moved to the United States. While working as a nurse at Memorial Sloan-Kettering, she counseled children undergoing amputation.
Rossbach co-founded Adolescent Sarcoma Patients’ Intense Rehabilitation with Exercise (ASPIRE) to encourage an active lifestyle for young amputees through sports and recreational activities. She also served as president and CEO of the ACA from 2002-2008.
“I have great respect and admiration for Paddy and the impact she has had on the Amputee Coalition of America and the limb loss community,” said Kendra Calhoun, who took over as president and CEO of the ACA late last year. “It is a privilege to be able to acknowledge Paddy’s contribution to this special community in a visible and meaningful way.”
The formal announcement of the Amputee Coalition of America’s Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp was made Oct. 8 at the Harvard Club, New York, New York.
To donate to the youth camp in honor of Paddy Rossbach, visit www.amputee-coalition.org/giving/donate_now.html
