Summer’s here–it’s time for Bleeding Disorder Camp!
Water trampolines, giant swing rides, and late night campfires… what could be better?
Summer is here, and that means it’s time for CAMP!
Hemophilia/bleeding disorder camps serve kids with all bleeding disorders and their siblings.The first time I went to bleeding disorder camp, my parents were so nervous that they stayed in upstate NY so they wouldn’t leave me alone. In the end, they had no reason to worry. Hemophilia camp is one of the safest and most fun places for a kid with a bleeding disorder. Infusions? Totally normal. Bleeds? Everyone understands it—no big deal. The nurses and staff there are incredibly knowledgeable about bleeding disorders, helpful with infusions and self-infusion teaching (if you want to learn!), and, of course, caring and wonderful.
Days are filled with regular camp activities, where bleeders and siblings get to feel just like regular kids. At my camp, Camp Little Oak, there’s swimming, field games, arts and crafts, boating, and even a community service project. Plus, we have a trip to a ropes course, a giant water trampoline on a lake…and infusions for anyone who needs them beforehand!!
I have gone to camp for nine years as a camper and am going on my second year as a counselor. If you are even considering sending your child to camp, I cannot recommend it enough. The self-confidence and sense of community I have gained from my years at Camp Little Oak have been invaluable.
There are 2 camps in New York just for bleeders and siblings, ages 7-17. There’s still time to apply!
Camp High Hopes (Boys Camp)
- Boys with Bleeding Disorders + Brothers
- 2016 Dates: July 24-July 30
- Application Due: July 4, 2016
- Website: http://www.camphighhopes.org/
- Application available on website.
Camp Little Oak (Girls Camp)
- Girls with Bleeding Disorders + Sisters
- 2016 Dates: July 31-August 6
- Application Due: July 1, 2016.
- Website: https://camplittleoak.org/
- Application available, email [email protected]
Two other camps in the area, Double H Ranch and Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, accept campers with all serious illnesses, including most bleeding disorders. Both camps run multiple sessions throughout the summer. Hole in the Wall’s application is closed for this year. Double H may have limited space: contact them and ask to speak with the admissions office. Click Here for Double H Ranch’s website and Click Here for Hole in the Wall’s website.
