Every summer, the Baton Rouge General Burn Center and Foundation provides a unique opportunity for pediatric burn survivors to attend Camp Catahoula. Since its inception in 2019, this camp facilitates a supportive environment for young burn survivors, allowing them to connect with peers who have faced similar challenges. Attendees partake in various activities, including horseback riding, arts and crafts, and fishing, fostering camaraderie and resilience among the campers.
Sadie Stockwell, co-director and physical therapist assistant at the Baton Rouge Burn Center, and Shay Shay Turner, a burn survivor who transitioned from camper to counselor, shared insights about the transformative experiences at Camp Catahoula. This summer camp plays a crucial role in promoting healing and friendship, highlighting the importance of community support for those affected by burns.
In a separate but equally significant discussion, the legacy of Jackie Robinson continues to inspire many, especially through the stories of pioneers who played a part in integrating baseball. Johnny Wright, a lesser-known figure, also contributed to this milestone in sports history. His daughter, Carlis Wright Robinson, recently authored a book titled “The Wright Side of History: The Life and Career of Johnny Wright, Co-Pioneer in Breaking Baseball’s Color Barrier, as Told by His Daughter.” Through her research, Robinson aims to bring attention to her father’s contributions, ensuring that his story is recognized alongside that of other baseball legends.
These two narratives underscore the importance of community, resilience, and recognizing the contributions of those who have paved the way for progress. The efforts at Camp Catahoula and the work of Carlis Wright Robinson both serve as powerful reminders of the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity and inspire change.