New Jersey basketball camp empowers children, teens with special needs

ByEyewitness News WABC logo
Saturday, August 19, 2017
Basketball camp empowers children with epilepsy, other neurological disorders
Laura Behnke has the story.

"Mighty" Mike Simmel has never let his disability keep him from doing what he loves. Diagnosed with epilepsy at a young age, Mike was determined to follow his dream. He spent thirteen years playing basketball with the Harlem Wizards, but didn't stop there - Mike also founded one of the most unique basketball camps in the country.

'Bounce Out the Stigma' is specifically tailored to children 8 to 21-years-old with epilepsy and other neurological disorders. Based in Bergen County, New Jersey, the camp has been offered to kids in twenty states nationwide. It was created to empower kids with epilepsy and to inspire them to reach for the stars.

Photojournalist Roger Anderson has the story.