Finding Joy Beyond A Scary Diagnosis

In March 2022, Jelena and Jesse’s lives took a sudden turn when their son Oliver began limping. What seemed like a minor issue quickly escalated. After multiple tests, the diagnosis arrived in April: Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH), a rare disease often classified as and treated like cancer. To make matters even more challenging, the family had just welcomed a newborn in February, compounding their emotional and physical strain.

Because of his treatment, Oliver had little exposure to the world outside his home. His shyness and introversion made family camp a daunting prospect. But when the family attended Campfire Circle Rainbow Lake , everything changed.

“It was eye-opening to see Oliver connect with other kids and his cabin mates,” Jelena shared. The support didn’t stop with Oliver—it extended to the whole family. Initially, Oliver’s attachment to his parents made it hard for Jelena and Jesse to connect with other families. But as Oliver grew more independent, they found themselves building relationships, sharing experiences, and finding solace in conversations with others who understood their journey. Jesse appreciated the chance to connect with other dads, opening up about feelings often left unspoken.

At camp, Oliver discovered a love for swimming, enjoyed the splash pad, and even tried hockey. Each activity helped him slowly emerge from his shell.

“Half the battle is treatment, the other half is keeping them positive to be able to get through treatment. Obviously, the doctors are important too, but, making them feel happy and forgetting about treatment is just as important. At camp, they get to do that,” says Jelena.

Inspired by the impact of Campfire Circle, Jelena and Jesse formed a team to participate in the Sporting Life 10K to support the cause. Their team name – Pokemon- is inspired by Oliver’s latest hobbies. They plan to bring their kids to the finish line, symbolizing their family’s resilience and the joy camp has brought into their lives. “This is why we run—for kids like Oliver. Camp gives them a chance to be kids, to forget about treatment, and to feel normal,” Jelena explained.

Today, Oliver continues to grow more outgoing with each Campfire Circle activity. Alongside his younger sibling, Casey, the family has found not just a camp but a community that supports them through every high and low.