Kids First. Not Cancer First

At eight years old, Jasper was diagnosed with leukemia. Overnight, his world became a cycle of hospital stays, endless treatments, and days filled with fear and exhaustion.

It wasn’t just Jasper’s world that changed. His dad, Zack, had to leave his job to care for him, while also managing how to be a husband and a father to Jasper’s two younger brothers, Felix and Milo. The family’s life became consumed by treatments, its uncertainty, and its overwhelming emotional and financial toll.

At the hospital, Campfire Circle visited Jasper’s room while he was in treatment. The staff brought ukuleles, games, and crafts, brightening up his day.

Then, that fall, Jasper and his family attended a Weekend at Camp. “It was magical—literally the first time we left a 30-minute radius of SickKids.” says Zack.

The following year, Jasper attended camp all by himself.

“As a long-time former camp staff myself, I know how impactful camp can be. And doubly so for kids like Jasper who are going through treatment,” says Zack. “Having met the nurses and team, I felt very confident in Campfire Circle’s ability to balance safety and fun.”

That summer, Jasper swam in the lake, sang songs around the campfire, made bracelets, and most importantly, he met other kids who understood what he was going through because they were going through it, too.

“Camp puts kids first, not cancer first,” says Zack. “That’s what makes camp so special”.

Right now, Campfire Circle is busy gearing up for a new summer camp season. We need your help to welcome over 2,580 campers like Jasper, who could benefit from camp experiences that provide joy, laughter and friendship.

When you make a donation today, your gift will be matched by McKesson Canada to go twice as far to help more kids with cancer or serious illness.