Tears and laughter were in abundance at the recent Victory Lane Camp Talent Night. Children involved with Victory Lane Camp shared songs, comedy, a magic show, and a dance routine. For each act, the parents of the “star” gave a short introduction of what they had learned from their children. Throughout the evening, other members of the Victory Lane Camp community shared skits and stories. Victory Lane Camp Founder Brett Fischer and camp song leader Mike Brown served as emcees for the event.
The evening began with AJ Wise singing a duet with his dad, Jimmy. Before the song, AJ’s mom, Tabatha, talked about AJ’s life as he deals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
“As life has gotten tougher, he’s the one encouraging us,” she expressed.
Greg and Christine Carey were next, introducing their son Alex, who has autism. Greg and Christine talked about how being involved with Victory Lane Camp helped them appreciate every aspect of Alex. Alex shared a comedy routine, and included his dad and some of his friends from Victory Lane Camp in his act.
Rebecca Johnson, along with her sister Leah, followed with a dance routine set to the Katy Perry song “Roar.” The sisters’ parents, Kaj and Cyndi Johnson provided a touching story about living with Rebecca’s multiple medical complications.
“When I look at her, she’s not broken,” noted Cyndi. “I love and accept her for the little girl she is.”
Amy Smith introduced her son Joe Hewitt by sharing about his determination. Amy wasn’t sure if Joe would be able to walk when he was born with some developmental challenges. He’s gone on to do more than walk, he participated on his school’s cross country team this year.
“He puts 100 percent into everything he does. He’s an inspiration to us.” Amy said. Joe presented a magic show, complete with disappearing crayons and a magically appearing flower.
The next act featured Caden Upchurch, who demonstrated different types of “dabbing” in a comical way. His parents, David and Dara Upchurch talked about Caden’s strength in dealing with his disability.
“Nothing is in his way,” David stated.
At this point in the program, Brett Fischer invited Shane Osting, athletic director at New Castle High School, to the stage along with athletes Nicolas Grieser and James Thompson. Brett awarded the Victory Award to the New Castle High School Athletic Department for embracing people with disabilities through the recent formation of the unified track team and other inclusive activities.
The program concluded with Crystal Ingram introducing her daughter Ruby. “From day one of her diagnosis, I’ve learned not to put limits on her,” Crystal shared. “She taught me never to give up.”
Ruby then took the stage and invited all the kids in the audience to “come on up!” The kids served as her backup singers as they recreated a campfire scene and Ruby sang “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.”
Following the program, members of the cast hosted a party, sponsored by Sulphur Springs Christian Church and met audience members. Local Girl Scout Troup 420 served ice cream to those in attendance.
The Talent Night served as a fundraising event for Victory Lane Camp. A generous donor is offering a matching monthly donation for all new monthly donations. A big thank you to all the new monthly donors who emerged at the event. There is still a need for more monthly donors. Find out more at
www.VictoryLaneCamp.org/give.php