Jaime was severely burned and barely survived the trip to the hospital. He had burn injuries to his hands, face, legs and arms – over 85 percent of his body was burned and his chances for survival were slim, at best. After many surgeries and outstanding medical care, Jaime was released from the hospital and began his new journey. His mother learned about the Burn Institute and this began his remarkable transformation from burn victim to burn survivor. In 1993, a five-year-old Jaime attended his first Burn Institute Camp – Camp Beyond the Scars. For the first time, Jaime met other kids that had burn injuries like himself. Jaime made new friends and enjoyed all that camp had to offer including horseback riding, arts and crafts, swimming, archery, and roller blading. After years of attending Camp Beyond the Scars, Jaime developed a greater sense of confidence in himself and his abilities.
Later, when Jaime was ready for school, the Burn Institute conducted a School-Re-Entry session with his soon to be classmates for Jaime’s visible scars, and explained that despite his physical differences, he was still the same as the rest of the children. Now, at age 19, Jaime serves as a camp counselor in training. His experiences and insight go a long way in helping new burn survivors learn to cope with their new injuries and adversities.
Jaime’s journey has taken him full circle from burn victim to burn survivor. He has accepted who he is and what he has to offer. Just like other young boys his age, Jaime has dreams and interests too. He spends his time playing the drums and someday wants to start his own band. His interests also include magic tricks. – for Jaime may have visible scars on the outside, but he has a pristine and magical soul on the inside.
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“Jaime has developed a greater sense of confidence in himself and his abilities.”