At the end of April, Camp I Am Me brought together eight families for the organization’s first-ever family camp. Camp Encourage is for the youngest burn survivors ages 0-6 years of age, their siblings and caregivers/parents.
Families gathered in Utica near Starved Rock State Park to participate in learning sessions as well as engage with one another on the topic of healing after a burn injury. Sessions for the parents included Adjustments and Self Care, as well as Anticipating a Child’s Physical and Emotional Needs. Rehearse Your Response was held for parents, and another one for older children and siblings.
There was even an inspiring session that included parents of burn survivors who are now attending Summer Camp, heading to college, or entering the workforce, showing attendees that the injury does not stop the trajectory of growth for their children. Panel guests shared their own lived experiences navigating their child through a burn injury and were available to answer questions from the families attending.
Kids participated in several therapeutic art activities over the weekend which tapped into their emotional wellbeing. A lovely hand molding session took place with survivors and siblings which was then slowly revealed by the families working together to remove the molds.
A pizza party kicked it all off, followed by family portraits and fun icebreakers. During the program there were many silly songs, playground trips for the kids, and lots of family playtime too, that included indulging in the Grand Bear Resort Waterpark.
On departure day, Utica Fire Protection District members showed up with not one, but three fire vehicles and an ambulance, ready for kids and adults alike to climb on and through, and they even took those who wanted to on a short ride around town. A member of the Illinois Conservation police was also in the mix, letting kids explore their vehicle, blare sirens and activate lights.
All in all, this was a beautiful weekend full of compassion, belonging, and hope for the future. We are thankful for the support of so many including our volunteers, guest speakers, the Haage Family Foundation, Utica Fire Protection District, and of course our Camp I Am Me supporters. Camp Encourage would not happen without you!