Autism spectrum disorder refers to a range of neurodevelopmental conditions. Some characteristics of autism include challenges with repetitive behaviors, communication, and social interactions, giving way to unique strengths and differences.

Cerebral Palsy is a neurological disorder that affects muscle control and coordination. Typically, the effects of cerebral palsy are seen in motor and oral skills. Despite these limitations, advancements in assistive technologies and services are making independence in daily life more attainable.

Developmental delays occur when a child experiences continuous roadblocks to reaching developmental milestones at the anticipated times. These delays may be in areas such as motor, language, social, or thinking skills. Early detection and intervention with a specialist can help to accelerate reaching those milestones.

Down syndrome is a chromosomal condition that affects the development of the brain and body. While it does lead to physical and mental challenges throughout life, down syndrome typically does not take away one’s ability to participate at school, work, in relationships, or other areas of society.

Epilepsy is the fourth-most common neurological disorder and affects people of all ages. It is characterized primarily by unpredictable seizures, but is considered a spectrum condition so not everyone shares the same symptoms. Epilepsy does not affect one’s intelligence and usually, daily physical limitations tend to be minimal.

Intellectual disabilities are characterized by significant limitations in two key areas — intellectual functioning (processes like learning, reasoning, and problem solving) and adaptive behaviors (the social and practical skills used in day-to-day life). However, with the right support, those with intellectual disabilities can develop and learn at great rates.

Aphasia is a communication disorder that occurs when there is damage to areas of the brain that are responsible for language. Although it may affect how one understands, reads, writes, or speaks, aphasia does not affect intelligence.

Fragile X Syndrome is a genetic disorder characterized by learning disabilities, developmental delays, and social or behavioral challenges.  Support in learning key language and social skills helps individuals with Fragile X Syndrome live a high level of independence as adults.

Angelman Syndrome is a complex genetic disorder that primarily affects the nervous system.  Characteristics include delayed development, intellectual disability, speech impairment, and challenges with movement and balance.  Different types of therapy are important in allowing individuals with Angelman Syndrome to reach their maximum developmental potential

Lindsay started as a volunteer Counselor with Special Camp in 1995, and joined the Staff in 1998.  During her years on Staff, Lindsay served as a Senior Counselor, Camper Coordinator, and Counselor Coordinator.  Lindsay then assumed the Director’s role in 2003 while in college at the University of Southern California.  After graduating with her BA in Communication in 2005, Lindsay had the fantastic opportunity to work for Best Buddies International for 3 years.  In 2008, Lindsay was offered a full-time position at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School, which allowed her to return to the Special Camp Director’s role – a position that she greatly missed!  In addition to Special Camp, Lindsay is a Junior/Senior Dean of Students at St. Margaret’s.  She and her spouse, Rob, are proud parents to two little girls!          

McCombs started volunteering at Special Camp in the summer of 2013, and joined the staff in 2016. During her time on staff, McCombs held the positions of Staff Intern, Assistant Camper Coordinator, Camper Coordinator, Development Coordinator, and is now entering her second summer as Associate Programs Director.  McCombs graduated from UCLA in 2020 with a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology and a minor in Disability Studies. McCombs is currently pursuing her Occupational Therapy Doctorate at Boston University.

Katie started volunteering at Special Camp in the summer of 2013, and joined the staff in 2016. While on staff, Katie held the positions of Staff Intern, Assistant Counselor Coordinator, Counselor Coordinator, and will now be joining us for her eighth summer as the Assistant Director. Katie graduated from St. Margaret’s in 2017 and recently received her major in Integrated Educational Studies with a minor in Disability Studies from Chapman University in 2021. Her work with Special Camp has inspired her to pursue a career working with children. She plans on teaching English to students abroad in the coming months.

Nurse Katie grew up involved with Special Camp from a very young age… first joining as a volunteer Counselor in 1998. She ultimately became a Staff member in 2003. Katie served many roles on Staff until solidifying her nursing career. In 2008, Katie graduated from North Orange County Regional Occupational Program as a Licensed Vocational Nurse.

After many years of working throughout the Capistrano Unified School District as a school nurse, she continued her education at Saddleback College with a double major in Nursing and Spanish in 2017. After obtaining her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing at University of Texas at Arlington, she has enthusiastically embraced the role of Camp’s Nursing Director. She currently works full time as a Registered Nurse in Mission Hospital’s Emergency Department. She and her husband, Ron, have a daughter, Rae, and are excited to be expecting the arrival of their son in October 2021.