There is a magical place north-west of Calgary called Camp Kindle. A place where kids escape their physical and mental struggles of cancer, find belonging with each other, and importantly, heal. Kids impacted by this cruel disease are learning that cancer is something lived rather than conquered.
“My name is Chloe. I am 10 years old, and I have cancer. My favorite time of the year is summer because that’s when I get to go to Camp Kindle. I love going to camp because I get to do lots of crafts, I’m in nature and I meet new people, like my friends Mario and Auralia. Camp makes me feel so happy!”
Chloe
Cancer and treatments have lasting, and sometimes, lifelong effects on kids’ bodies and minds. They face the risk of multiple issues such as blindness, deafness, heart or kidney problems, growth and mobility challenges, and more. And beyond these, kids also deal with mental and psychosocial issues.
Similar to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), kids can be left with physical wounds from childhood cancer but can also carry psychological wounds that will never go away. And this is where Camp Kindle comes in for them and their families.
Research conducted by Dr. Catherine Laing at the University of Calgary revealed the vital role that cancer camp plays in the healing and recovery of children and their families. Dr. Laing’s research revealed that cancer camp helps children with cancer and families:
- They find acceptance and belonging at a time when forced isolation and harsh medical treatments leave kids with cancer feeling estranged from their peers.
- Understand their grief in a new light as something to be lived rather than conquered.
- Make sense of their traumatic experiences through storytelling and sharing with others in similar situations.
Medical professionals address the complex physical needs of children with cancer, whereas camp addresses their emotional and psychological needs.
“Healing is not just about medications; it is about strengthening the mind and spirit. Camp helps make the body, mind, and spirit healthier. Ideally, a child treated for cancer should still be able to be a child. Camp is about kids being kids, despite the diagnosis of cancer.”
Dr. Greg Guilcher, Pediatric Oncologist
Not only does Camp Kindle provide a place of healing for kids who have cancer, but it also plays a significant role for their whole family. Summer Camp programs are open to siblings, who often struggle with feelings of fear and guilt, abandonment and jealousy as parents shift much-needed attention to their sick child, as well as children whose parents have cancer. Camp Kindle also offers year-round camp opportunities for families who can stay for a weekend to escape from their daily cancer struggles and reconnect as a family.
Camp Kindle means so many things to so many people.
“I’m sure I was probably more nervous than her the first time she went to camp because I had never been away from her for that long before, but we met the staff during a family weekend stay, so I knew she would be fine. I remember the first thing Chloe said when she got into the car on Friday after camp, “Mom, most of the people here are just like me.”
Lisa, Chloe’s mom
“Thank you for hosting our weekend reprieve at the Ranch House! There is something to be said about being somewhere “new” yet feeling the comfort and safety of old. From decorating the gingerbread village to tobogganing to stargazing to Pippin morning visits, we enjoyed every single minute of our stay and made forever memories. We’re excited for the next family that stays here and for them to leave with the same love and appreciation that we are today. Dorothy once said “There’s no place like home” …unless you are at Camp Kindle. With grateful hearts,”
The Dupuis Family
“Camp was great for me to try new things and meet new friends. I felt that I could relate to others because everyone had a connection with cancer. I felt proud to share my story. I am grateful that I can go to camp.”
Unknown Camper
“Just a little note to say thank you! We are home with the kids safe and sound in Red Deer. They didn’t stop chatting about camp the whole 1.5-hour drive home! The camp was everything 8yr Meghan’s Disney Musical camp movies promised her and more! 11yr big brother Ryan was sad to say goodbye to his new buddies but was filled with so much joy talking about all the cool activities and new traditions of Camp Kindle summer Camp he was able to experience! They had an amazing time, and bonds of friendship through shared cancer journeys. Definitely excited for summer 2023. A heartfelt thank you for organizing such a great week for our kids!!”
Parents Sue and Mark
“I can’t say enough good things about Camp Kindle! My kids (4) are ages 9-15 and they all have such a great time. Even the teenagers; and entertaining teens is a tough task! My son is still going through treatments, and it is so reassuring to have him enjoying camp with the care of the nurses. I never have any concerns! Camp Kindle has opened up my kids to so many amazing opportunities that they normally wouldn’t get and has made them more comfortable with the insecurities of cancer. Thank you SOOOO much Camp Kindle and Kids Cancer Care!”
Parent to a child with cancer
To find out more about Camp Kindle and all the other programs and services Kids Cancer Care provide for children and their families, please visit our website at www.kidscancercare.ab.ca or contact us at 403-216-9210.
