Next month, 10-17 August, the Order of Malta undertake its 30th international summer camp for young disabled. The Irish Association, this year’s hosts, will welcome 500 participants – volunteers, carers and many disabled young people – to Clongoes Wood, Co.Kildare.

Excitement is growing as the final touches are put in place for the young representatives, who come from 20 European countries, as well as further afield, including Lebanon and the United States. The Grand Master of the Order, Fra’ Matthew Festing, will attend, as will members of the Sovereign Council (the Order’s senior government), and he notes that he is looking forward to presenting the St. Christopher Cup. Every year, this hotly contested croquet competition attracts banks of noisy supporters shouting encouragement to their enthusiastic guests, all aiming to out-do each other.

Reassurance and personal independence
“Is Feidir Leat” or “Yes you can” is this year’s motto. The Irish Hospitaller, Brendan Lawlor, explains: “Overcoming the physical and architectural barriers that all too often restrict the lives of those who live with disability, with a spirit of inclusion, friendship, spirituality and fun is a great way to reassure our guests that they can cope in the real world.” For the participants, whose ages range from 18 to 34, the summer camp is not only an opportunity to develop and consolidate new and old friendships, but also to increase their personal independence.