Stephanie’s Story

Camp gave me a place of belonging when I felt my most lost. As a teen with cancer my typical day was very different from a normal teenager. Camp gave me the opportunity to connect with other teens that were going through the exact same roller coaster ride that I was. Camp also helped me rediscover who I was, who I am, and who I wanted to be. During the many Leadership programs I recognized the type of person I wanted to be and with the support of camp staff was able to set goals to become that person.

I remember a distinct moment that will stay with me as I graduate. While sitting in Gatts’ Lodge, a group of Campers led us in a song. I became overwhelmed as I realized the lives that cancer and camp have affected.

To be surrounded by such positive people in such a dark place in my life, and to have had incredible opportunities that I wouldn’t have had without camp has helped me become a person full of life. Cancer may have changed my life, but CAMPFIRE CIRCLE made a much larger change.