Camp Kesem
Lisa Pawlak
+ 7 other camps for kids facing adversity Did you know that over five million kids nationwide have been impacted by a parent’s cancer? Many others are facing adversities such as death of a loved one, their own cancer diagnosis or family substance abuse. Camp Kesem and other organizations offer a reprieve for local kids in tough situations — free summer camp experiences in specialized, nurturing environments.
Camp Kesem — A magical place for kids impacted by parents with cancer Camp Kesem, for kids and teens ages 6–18, offers everything that traditional overnight camps do: swimming, rock climbing, zip-lining, talent shows, crafts, cabin chats, campfires and more. Campers have the chance to try new things, make good friends and have lots of fun. They even get to choose a camp name, so for kids who have always wanted to be called Spiderman, Unicorn or Twinkle, here’s their chance. One of the things that makes Camp Kesem incredibly special is an event
called Empowerment, held once each camp session. This is when everyone gathers to acknowledge what brought them together and share experiences related to having a parent with cancer. “Empowerment is what makes Camp Kesem unique and magical. The entire camp — campers, counselors, nurses — comes together to be empowered by each others’ stories,” explains Riva “Lux” Alger, camp counselor. “Camp Kesem is a family, a place where you can be yourself and escape from all the struggles at home. The lives of everyone who participates are truly changed by the time the event is over.” “My mom, who is now in remission, was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cont. on p. 22
20 • SanDiegofamily.com • April 2019
Camp Kesem at UC San Diego
June 17-23 and Aug. 4-10 Irvine Ranch Outdoor Education Center in Orange, CA Camp Kesem’s San Diego chapter partners with UC San Diego. All volunteers are UC San Diego students who are carefully screened and trained — many have had a parent or family member with cancer, too. More than 200 local kids attended the local camp last summer. Location varies year-to-year throughout Southern California, but transportation to camp is always provided from UC San Diego’s main campus. For more information, visit www.campkesem.org.