Camp Ronald McDonald at Eagle Lake

Josh's Story


Ten Years of Camping Magic
Even though it's hard to watch him go, Peggy Whitten knows her son's week away at camp is full of essential and wonderful experiences.

At 22, Joshua Whitten still looks forward to his time at Camp Ronald McDonald at Eagle Lake, a positive force in his life for the past 10 years. The joy the camp has brought him is obvious to anyone who enters his bedroom. In addition to diplomas, prom pictures, and trophies typical of any American bedroom, Josh has filled his room with memorabilia from camp.

In 1993, Peggy and her husband, Greg, didn't know what to expect from Camp Ronald McDonald. A case worker suggested the week of summer camp for Josh, who has cerebral palsy that affects his ability to express himself but allows him to use a wheelchair.

Only after meeting the camp's counselors and other staff members did Peggy consent to sending Josh there for eight days. It would mean time away from his parents; his older brothers Jed & Zach; and his younger sister Christie; but Peggy said she understood Joshua's need for a week that was just his.

Every year, camp gives Josh time to himself to swim, dance and fish with his friends. The week allows his family to relax and take a vacation; comfortable in the knowledge the Josh is having the time of his life. Josh soaks up the attention lavished on him during the week, and Peggy said that after Josh's last session at camp, his verbal skills seemed improved.

Josh graduated high school in 1997 and subsequently went to a four-year program at Shasta College in Redding, CA. He graduated last May and works in an activity center where he recycles paper and folds towels. When he's not working, he bowls (every Monday night) and plays baseball and computer games. He also watches his favorite movie, Shrek, and watches 49ers games.

Peggy and Greg hope to see their smiling, blue eyed son married and in a home of his own one day. As parents, they want the same things for all their children: happiness, health and family.

  Camp Ronald McDonald at Eagle Lake Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern California