Camp is what cancer can’t take away from us

Thejas was diagnosed with hepatoblastoma at two years old and needed a liver transplant. Fortunately, Thejas’ dad was a perfect match.

“It was during COVID when he was diagnosed. It was dreadful. It almost broke me,” recalls Pushkala, Thejas’ mom. “My husband had to recover all on his own while I was at SickKids with my son. We weren’t allowed any visitors, and we were apart for a very long time.”

Community Programs as a First Step

Like many families, attending a community program is the first Campfire Circle touchpoint outside of the hospital. Thejas’ family attended a weekend camping trip where they enjoyed roasting marshmallows, jumping in a lake, and meeting other families.

“Camp was the first time we met parents of kids who had been through a similar experience. There is an unspoken pain that we know and isn’t said—we don’t even have to talk about. We were there to celebrate our kids, our families, and each other. At dark points in my life, I never thought this kind of joy would be possible again,” says Pushkala.

When she sees Thejas playing, in the hospital or at camp, these are the moments that light her up, too.

“Camp is what cancer can’t take away from us. I feel so happy. And I want to give that feeling to other parents, siblings, and family members. That’s why I give monthly. Because kids should be having fun, out in nature, running around, and singing at the top of their lungs. Knowing that my donation helps give that to other kids and families, that creates a sparkle in me! I’m proud to give, for all those little bodies that are fighting such big fights. I trust this organization with my son, so of course I trust them with my donation—and so should everyone!” she says.