Camp
Periwinkle - The Benefits
Camp has proven benefits for children with life threatening illnesses and
their siblings.
Benefits for patients and siblings include:
A new or greatly improved sense of well-being
Improved self-confidence
Acceptance and understanding
A welcome break from hospital routine
Meeting other kids in the same circumstances and realizing they are not alone
Meeting adults who are long-term survivors
Feeling like a kid again.
Benefits for parents include:
Having a week to address their own needs
A welcome break from hospital routine
An opportunity to focus on other children
An opportunity to feel "normal"
Many children arrive at camp frightened and wondering what in the world they will be able to do for one whole week away from home! From the second they get off the bus, they learn that they can do everything just like "normal" children. Sadness turns to joy. As one mother put it, "Thank you for sending home a different child."
Much of the volunteer staff is made up of the same nurses and doctors the children see at the hospital. Making happy memories together at camp, they develop a stronger and more supportive relationship. After camp, seeing each other becomes a positive experience as they recall the joy and laughter of Camp Periwinkle.
"The
children return from camp glowing with confidence because their lives have
been changed, forever! The week they spend at camp can't be duplicated in a
hospital."
Dr. ZoAnn Dreyer, Pediatric Oncologist
