For 26 years, Camp Sunshine has welcomed families with children who have life-threatening illnesses to stay for a weeklong program. The hope is to give these children and their families a chance to get away from the stresses of everyday life and to have fun and share their experiences with others in similar situations.
The mission has been incredibly successful.
And so our group traveled on Sunday to Camp Sunshine, a beautiful oasis situated on Sebago Lake. Our expectations were vague, and we were all unsure of what the next couple of days would bring. But one by one, the magic of Camp Sunshine touched us — in some form or another.
All the stories we had heard about how amazing this camp is came true.
You see, that’s what happens at Camp Sunshine. During the week, these sick children are able to become one with others their age. They are able to experience life as a kid, with no stress and virtually zero limitations. Groups are set up so there are activities catered to children, teens and adults alike.
The day starts with breakfast at 8 a.m. and by 8 p.m., you’re so tired from the full schedule of activities that bedtime brings dreams to the children and excitement for the next day to come.
For the parents, it's a chance to bond with others going through the same life challenges and battles that they are also facing.
And for the siblings of these children, it's a remarkable opportunity for them to have the attention and support that is often overlooked when another member of the family is afflicted with a life-threatening illness.
But for the volunteers, there is no greater reward in life than to be a part of something this special. To donate time to those less fortunate and put smiles on their faces every single day is one of the most heartwarming experiences I will ever know.
Just like that, everyone is the same at Camp Sunshine. You eat meals together, partake in outdoor activities together and laugh together. The children value their time with you during the day, and the parents take the time away from their kids to take part in group sessions and adult activities that provide the opportunity to let go of their fears and sadness.
Because there are no tears at camp.
There are no worries, no restrictions and no one telling you that can’t do something. Every day these families grow together. They learn that it’s OK to smile, despite the battle their child must overcome. They learn it’s okay to have visible physical signs of their terrible disease, because others do, too. They learn that as a team, you can accomplish anything you want.
But most importantly, these families learn that they are not alone.
There is always someone to turn to at Camp Sunshine for answers.
Since 1984, this year-round program — free of charge to all families — has been a safe haven. Founder Anna Gould and her staff have done a remarkable job ensuring that the goal of the organization is carried out every single day.
Now, more than 25 years later, the only tears shed at Camp Sunshine are those of joy. At the end of each week, the patients, parents, siblings and the volunteers collectively walk away with an unforgettable memory, with the hopes of one day soon returning to the place they have come to know as home.
For more information on how to get involved in Camp Sunshine, please visit www.campsunshine.org.
Photo courtesy of Camp Sunshine website
