Kids affected by cancer are VIPs during special weeklong day camp
Last week Cancer Services hosted its annual Camp Care, a weeklong day camp for kids with cancer and their siblings.
More than 30 kids aged 5 to 13 enjoyed an unforgettable week that began with a visit to Mike the Tiger and LSU’s Stadium Club, and wrapped up with a Grand Finale party at St. Luke’s Episcopal. Other activities during the week included a visit from pet therapists and trips to the Knock-Knock Children’s Museum, Frazier Hall Baseball, Adventure Quest in New Orleans and the Plaquemine Water Front Park for swamp tours and games! Thanks to donor generosity, Camp Care is free of charge to all campers.
The boys and girls enjoyed special VIP treatment from the Baton Rouge Police Department who escorted them throughout the week in addition to a VIP escort from the Louisiana State Police for their trip to New Orleans. Cancer Services staff led camp efforts and were accompanied by enthusiastic camp volunteer counselors and summer interns.
Eleven-year-old Damon has attended the camp before, but this is his 5-year-old sister Adriana’s first experience at Camp Care. With a 13-year-old sister who is battling cancer, the siblings enjoy “having a place to go and have fun with other kids who know what we’re going through.”
Director of Cancer Services Whitney Craig has led the organizations’ camps for at least five years.
“This week provides kids a much-needed distraction from a disease that can take over so many aspects of their lives,” said Craig. “It’s a break from the treatments and appointments, and it provides opportunities for them to connect with others who can understand their experiences. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing these kids smile and hearing them laugh.”
In addition to Camp Care, Cancer Services offers three other summer camps and a STEM camp throughout the year. Learn more about the organization, its camps and other programs and services by visiting cancerservices.org or by calling (225) 927-2273.
