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Lifelong Bonds Made At Camp For Kids Affected By A Parent’s Cancer. Spots Are Still Open For This Free, Week-Long Experience

Through a personal experience with a family member about three years ago, University of Iowa student, Maddie Gulick, learned of a nationwide organization that brings together children whose parents have battled, or are battling, cancer. The seven days her cousin spent at Camp Kesem were eye opening for Gulick.

Kids six through eighteen years old are invited to attend, and are given the opportunity to just be kids. They also get a chance to bond with others who are facing the same challenges. Not only do they create lifelong relationships with other campers, but strong connections with the college students who are acting as camp leaders are developed.

This year’s camp will be held from June 2 through June 8 at the YMCA Campgrounds near Boone. Even though snow make-up days for some area schools may cross over into June, Gulick says the kids are able to join on a day later in the week. She says they have about 15 spots still open and are inviting any area children impacted by parental cancer to join them. They will spend that week doing typical camp activities, canoeing, arts and crafts, archery, hiking, and much more. In addition, they are free to open up and share about their experience, if they choose.

Kids can also share one-on-one at any time throughout their stay. The camp does not charge the kids for their attendance. Gulick says committee members are all involved with raising funds alongside those from the organization. There is one large fundraising event held every year. Make the Magic is scheduled for April 6 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Iowa City. Anyone interested in learning more about Camp Kesem or who would like to sign up a child to attend can do so through the email address and website link included below.

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For more information or to register a child for Camp Kesem:

          Website: https://campkesem.org/iowa/

Email: Iowa.outreach@campkesem.org

 

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