Sunday, December 5, 1999 -- Morgantown
Back Bay Snowflake Sprint 5K

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Mountaineer Spina Bifida Camp Spina Bifida, more commonly known as "open spine", is the most frequently occurring birth defect, affecting approximately on of every 1000 live births. although each case is different, many physicians believe that aggressive treatment of Spina Bifida is essential and advocate lifelong care of all persons afflicted with the condition. Active early treatment greatly improves the individual's potential for self-sufficiency. Through public outreach programs, the Mountaineer Spina Bifida camp and the Spina Bifida Association of America are working to raise public awareness about Spina Bifida and the much improved treatment available for those with the condition.

The Mountaineer Spina Bifida Camp actively pursues education and training and focuses on activities that promote independence and those that facilitate the development of daily living. The Camp, located at Cedar Lakes in central West Virginia, was established in 1985 as the second such camp in the U.S. There are now seven camps in existence. Campers range in age from eight to eighteen and come from all areas of the state. The camp is staffed by doctors, nurses, therapists and other highly trained medical personnel, all of whom volunteer their time.

The objectives of the Mountaineer Spina Bifida Camp are to build self-esteem, promote independence and enhance the development of social skills. The camp accomplishes these objectives by providing an experience away from parents and family in which campers associate with peers, and by providing experiences in recreation and socialization which will enhance the campers' quality of life. A significant number of campers return year after year, as camp is a major and rewarding experience in their lives. Camp counselors and leaders also return annually; an indication of the satisfaction with the program.

The Mountaineer Spina Bifida Camp is a non-profit organization whose operating funds come entirely from private donations. It is for this reason that the Snowflake Sprint was initiated. With the generous support of sponsors such as the Back Bay Seafood Restaurant and Mountaineer Corner, it is hoped that proceeds from 1999's Snowflake Sprint will fund a significant portion of the cost of camp operations.