A summer camp for children with cancer

The prognosis for children with cancer has changed significantly over the past 10 years. Currently, it is anticipated that cure can be achieved in approximately 50% of newly diagnosed cases of childhood cancer. The quality of life for these children depends not only on their medical treatment but also on the successful management of the psychological problems related to their diagnosis. A summer camp was established in Florida as a part of our psychosocial rehabilitation program for pediatric cancer patients. Participating in the day-to-day camp life were 26 children with various forms of cancer. Each child not only had the opportunity to enjoy a normal out-of-door life style, away from their overprotective parents, but experienced daily contact with other children who shared a similarly stressful existence. It is felt the awareness gained through the realization that they were not along in their plight and the independence instilled through separation from parents was beneficial to each child. It is anticipated that future camps with the inclusion of psychological testing will provide us with the opportunity to further assess the need for psychosocial rehabilitation for the child with cancer.