Nils “Skipper” Gjertson
Meet Nils “Skipper” Gjertson, who’s life path changed when he was injured in a house fire that burned over 25% of his body- including his face, arms and hands. Across the years of his recovery, Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation’s programs helped Skipper come to terms with both physical and personal challenges. According to Skipper, “AARBF’s Champ Camp, community and leadership programs filled a large void and gave me both a purpose and a sense of belonging without judgement”. Today he is a strong contributor to those programs teaching lessons he learned to new burn survivors as a camp counselor and volunteer.
My name is “Skipper”, and this is my story
My burn injury happened on November 21, 2013, in a house fire in Venice Beach, California. I was burned over 25% of my body (hands, face, and arms). I was released from the hospital on New Year’s Eve (after 3 weeks in ICU and 2 weeks in the burn unit) with list of my upcoming outpatient visits, the promise of future surgeries and a vague understanding of the challenges and demands of both physical and emotional recovery.
In an instant everything changed. It was overwhelming
Prior to my accident, I had a passion for sailing. I spent my summers at the UCLA Marina Aquatic Center (MAC) as a camper (from age of 5) and later as a camp counselor teaching sailing. After my injury, doctors repeatedly warned me of the dangers of sun exposure – and I had to come to terms with the reality that my sailing and teaching at the MAC was over. It was devastating. Stripped of this passion, I began to understand the enormity of healing from a burn injury. I had yet to learn about personal empowerment, the power to choose how the burn injury would affect me. That would follow.
Who am I now? Champ Camp the path to finding acceptance
At this point I had restarted my university education with focus in Biology where I hoped to better understand the psychological impact of my burn injury and pursue a career in healthcare. My AARBF Care Manager suggested I get involved with the organization’s Champ Camp for children ages 5-17. Although I had not been a camper at Champ Camp, I could utilize my teaching and leadership skills from MAC. I was in admiration of the camaraderie and warmth I received from my co-counselors, but more so blown away upon seeing the campers’ bond and accept each other. It was overwhelming and transformational.
Putting in the work. Understanding myself and guiding others
As I completed my university degree in subsequent years, surgeries were still frequent, and I often found it difficult to calm my nerves in large crowds. I would return to Champ Camp as a counselor. It took tremendous work and dedication. Yet every year I learned something new about myself, as Champ Camp filled a large void with something familiar and meaningful. In this special place where burn survivors can feel truly comfortable our burns connect us as survivors and gave us common ground. That’s the magic that AARBF brings with this annual event- a place to be safe, to morn, to learn and grow. I am grateful for Champ Camp-the campers, my co-counselor (Jack Rabbit) and the leaders (Cubby) for the lasting, positive impact on my life.
Contribution, fellowship, inspiration
Now, as an adult, I work as a contractor with a passion for problem solving and working with my hands (which helps build dexterity I need). I continue to volunteer at ski trips, and outdoor adventures where I can help others and I enjoy the fellowship of the AARBF community. The annual AARBF Holiday Parties hosted across the state are very special events for community families. I’ve volunteered at the Los Angeles holiday party for a couple years distributing gingerbread house kits to families. My involvement in this event, and in volunteering in general was sparked by the generosity and altruism of my mother (who prefers to be out of the spotlight). She continues to contribute and encourage all of us to do as much as we can for others. Inspiring indeed.
Make an impact today
Now in our 55th year, AARBF programs have helped burn survivors across California. Please help us to deliver lasting results in our community via a direct donation now. Our small staff and large pool of volunteers, like Skipper ensure that every dollar you contribute has a high impact. Now more than ever, we need your help, please donate and share this message with friends and family.