Finding Home at Campfire Circle: Ashlynne’s Story

Meet Ashlynne, a vibrant 19-year-old from Bowmanville, Ontario, a tabby owner, Swiftie, and lover of camp.

Ashlynne’s camp adventure started at a winter weekend at camp (WAC) in 2011 when she was just five years old. From that first experience, she felt an overwhelming sense of inclusion and warmth that has stayed with her through the years. “I have felt very included and welcomed by every camper, staff, and volunteer,” she shares.

Since that first weekend, Ashlynne has collected joyful memories—from spontaneous jumps into the lake fully clothed (an experience she amusingly advises against) to the thrill of swinging on the giant swing at 7:30 a.m.

“Campfire Circle has given me a home away from home. I would look forward to attending every summer to get away from ‘normal life’ with doctor’s appointments and stressful exams,” she reflects.

Her mother, Janet, shares this sentiment with heartfelt words:

“We did family camp, which gave us time to bond and heal as a family. It was so wonderful to be able to see Ashlynne’s brothers also enjoy camp. As parents it was nice to know that she was with her people and was well taken care of. We were happy that she found her happy place and that she could truly be herself. The hospital may have cured her cancer, but camp healed our hearts.”

The camp’s mantra, “challenge by choice,” once seemed like a simple slogan to Ashlynne. Now, as a graduate, she carries this philosophy into her daily life, embracing challenges with courage and authenticity. “Camp has also taught me how to stand out and be myself without being afraid of being judged.”

Currently in her second year of the veterinary technician program at the University of Guelph, Ashlynne balances her studies with a part-time job at a local vet clinic. She is thrilled to be learning and growing in a field she’s passionate about.

When asked what she’d say to someone considering Campfire Circle for the first time, Ashlynne’s advice is straightforward: “Just do it, go to camp! Camp really becomes a second home very quickly, and it’s hard not to love it there. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming, and no one judges you if you’re different.”

From a shy five-year-old to a confident young woman pursuing her dreams, her story is a beautiful reminder of how camp can be more than just a place—it can be a lifelong source of strength and joy.