2012 Camp Can Do in August

Written by  Facing Cancer Together
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The American Cancer Society's Camp Can Do is a "fun fun fun and safe" place for kids who are facing cancer to enjoy summer activities.

campcando bikesLocated in the forests of Mt. Gretna, PA, this camp offers kids a place to have fun and connect with other kids who know what they're going through. A trained staff of volunteers and medical professionals are there to attend to the special needs that these kids may have. And, this may be the only chance that some of these kids have to get away from the hospital for a week. Scroll down to see a video of how much fun these kids are having!

Camp Can Do was created by the American Cancer Society in Pennsylvania in 1983 to provide a getaway for kids currently in treatment, along with kids who are post-treatment. There's even a special camp for their siblings so that they too can feel special at a time when their parents are giving a lot of attention to the child with cancer.

The campers range in age from 8 to 17. They get to return every summer for five years if they want. And 90 percent of them do. Even with an all-volunteer crew, it costs the American Cancer Society East Central Division nearly $700 for each camper. But the kids and their families don't pay a cent. The cost is covered by donations.

campgirlstalentshowRead an article on Camp Can Do titled "Where Nobody Stares," and learn about other camps that are especially for kids facing cancer.

Details about the 2012 Camp Can Do camping season:

When is Camp?
Patient Camp Week 1 is scheduled for August 5 through 11, 2012 
Patient Camp Week 2 is scheduled for August 12 through 18, 2012

Website: http://www.cancer.org/MyACS/Pennsylvania/AreaHighlights/pacampcando

camp gatheringAbout the Camp:
Camp Can Do is a camp sponsored by the American Cancer Society and provides a normal, active and safe camp experience where children can celebrate life while living through their cancer journey. Campers will explore the outdoors, swim, fish, boat, work with arts and crafts, and spend a day at Hershey Park among other activities.

Who can Camp?
Patient Camp is for youth ages 8 to 17 who have ever been diagnosed with cancer in the last 5 years may attend Camp Can Do. Sibling Camp is for youth ages 8 to 17 whose brother or sister has been diagnosed with cancer.

Where is Camp?
Camp Can Do takes place in cabins at Gretna Glen Camp & Retreat, located in Mt. Gretna, PA
Gretna Glen Camp & Retreat Center 87 Old Mine Rd Lebanon, PA 17042

What kind of medical accommodations are provided?

Volunteer Pediatric Oncology doctors and nurses are available around-the-clock to administer routine chemotherapy, arrange for blood counts, handle medical emergencies that may arise, and adjust any program to meet campers’ needs.

camp1How much does Camp cost?
Camp Can Do is an experience provided at NO COST to all campers.

Contact Information:
Cindy Gebhard Phone: (717) 533-6144 x3071
Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Download the Camp Can Do application, fill it out and mail to:
American Cancer Society Attention: Cindy Gebhard
Route 422 and Sipe Avenue
Hershey, PA 17033

American Camp Association Accreditation
Camp Can Do has passed a 300-standard review to become accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA). The ACA collaborates with experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Red Cross, and other youth service agencies to assure that current practices at the camp reflect the most up-to-date, research-based standards in camp operation. ACA accreditation helps to ensure summers of growth and fun in an environment committed to safety.

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