HEALTHY LIVING Jamie's labour of love an example of `Yes, we can!' Jamie Adam is a young man with Down Syndrome who receives support from Community Living North Halton and is employed at their sheltered workshop, Horizon Packaging. While working on a group project at CLNH's Educational Training Centre, Jamie showed a particular interest in and talent for using a sewing machine. When Jamie was asked if he would like to make a quilt of his very own, his infectious grin spoke volumes and with assistance from one of the administration staff, work began on the project. Jamie's favourite colours were black and red, so that was the starting point for fabric selection. His interests encompass all sorts of sports, machinery and music, so the collection included fabrics with monster trucks, motorcycles, skateboards, basketballs, golf balls and music designs. The golf ball patterns are especially meaningful as Jamie works at a golf course in the summer months. Jamie sewed long strips of fabric together then the strips were cut into blocks, the blocks were stitched into rows and the quilt slowly took shape. His goal was to have the quilt finished in time for an upcoming camping trip. As well as a photographic diary of the work in progress, Jamie took home some scraps of fabric from his quilt "to keep in a little box to remind me of making it." In addition to creating a useful and beautiful quilt of his very own, this project also helped in the development of Jamie's fine and gros motor skills, socialization, self-esteem and even time management. Jamie was meticulous about each and every dropped pin and work would halt until the lost item was recovered and placed safely back in its container. His last action of every evening was to gently place his unfinished quilt in the cupboard, kiss it goodnight and say that he loved it. His cheeky grin and sideways glance let the world know that he was really hamming it up. Jamie often brought his red Tim Hortons mug to the quilting sessions, so when it came time to name the quilt, his choice was "Extra large double double," to match his favourite beverage when out with his support worker. As work neared completion, Jamie's ambition extended to thoughts of entering his quilt in the local fall fair, with the possibility of winning a ribbon. He has also offered to make quilts for many others who stopped by to see the work in progress, and wonders whether a quilting business may be in his future. To quote from one of Jamie's support workers, "I feel very privileged and honoured to know him. Jamie's tenacious approach to life sets an example for all those who care to take the time to learn from him. Jamie approaches each task with a dogged determination to do his best. He, himself is eager to learn, try new challenges, and overcome shortfalls with humour. "There is no job too big or small for Jamie as he enjoys seeing things come together for his own sense of accomplishment and to make others happy along the way. Everything that Jamie embraces in life speaks of how success is truly about the jour- Jamie Adam hard at work on the quilt he made while at Community Living North Halton's sheltered workshop, Horizon ney, not the destination." Packaging. Submitted photo Yes, we can! 21 Independent & Free Press, Thursday, July 28, 2011 Healthy Living . . . If you can't stand the heat, MAKE A SALAD THIS SUMMER Little Broadway Camp Ages 5-7 905.873.8729 71 Mountainview Rd. N. Georgetown, ON Weeks of Aug. 2 & 15 Sign-up Now! Full details at www.ensemblekids.com or contact Amanda at (905) 877-3344. Spaces going fast! Julia Fountain · Naturopathic Doctor Amelia Fratnik · Chiropractor Carol Fantin · Reg. Massage Therapist BAYNES PHYSIOTHERAPY * Arthritis * Car Accident Injuries * Sports Injuries 256 MAIN STREET SOUTH GEORGETOWN August Events Smoothies & Healthy Snacks Workshop with Chef Jenny: SUNDAY, AUGUST 14th 2:00 - 3:00 PM Naturopathic Medicine Cabinet Essentials presented by Julia Fountain ND: WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17th 7:30 - 8:30 PM Visit www.healthspan.ca for further details and online registration 905-873-4964 Baynes for your pains.