Cameron

Cameron and his brother got up alone every morning and this morning was no different. Their parents kept themselves locked in their basement bedroom where they smoke meth. Cameron's father was plagued with mental illness, but refused to take the medication. Instead he chose illegal drugs to treat his illness.

Cameron's family had been almost idyllic until his father became ill. The stress became too much for his mother and she began to abuse drugs as well. The children were neglected; the house was filthy and often there was little food. Even the utilities were being shut off one by one. A caring teacher called authorities who worked with the parents, but eventually, the children were removed from the home.

Cameron, who once had a promising future, became withdrawn and quietly angry. At the semester, he was failing three of his classes. The young man's dream was to join the Navy as his uncle had done, but things were not looking very promising for this Cameron.

His case manager matched Cameron to a mentor from Children's Foundation of Mid-America who was a Navy veteran. Bill worked with him to build his self esteem and help him know that was strong and able to build a healthy life for himself. Bill helped find a tutor who worked with Cameron to get back on track with school and though it took an extra semester, Cameron graduated high school.

Bill went with him to the Navy recruiter and helped Cameron with the paperwork so he could enlist. When he completed his training, it was Bill that Cameron called to come to the ceremony. Though his parents continue to struggle, Cameron knows he is responsible for himself and has a new support system.

At Children's Foundation of Mid-America, we see the value in each child and we work to help that child heal and become a healthy individual. Just like Cameron, each year hundreds of children are matched with the right therapist, mentor, or caregiver who will best facilitate their healing.