Camp Sparkle offers children and teens dealing with the impact of cancer a safe place to be themselves, surrounded by others who truly understand what they're going through. Whether they are personally battling cancer, supporting a loved one, or mourning a loss, Camp Sparkle provides a nurturing environment.
Camp Sparkle's Mission and Vision
"Camp Sparkle’s core mission is to ensure that no child faces cancer alone," explains Michelle Millman, CEO of Cancer Pathways. "We provide a safe space for kids and teens to share their experiences and find comfort among peers who truly understand their journey."
Inspired by Gilda Radner, who passionately advocated for greater support and community for those affected by the disease, Camp Sparkle aims to bring light and hope into the lives of its participants, symbolized by Gilda's dog, Sparkle.
Creating a Supportive Community
At Camp Sparkle, children and teens are surrounded by others who share similar experiences, which helps to alleviate feelings of isolation and anxiety. Campers start their day with a "welcome circle," a routine designed to foster a sense of belonging and openness.
Michelle Massey, Oncology Social Work Director and Camp Sparkle Director, emphasizes the importance of this community. "Our kids and teens know they are in a camp with others who are having the same or similar experiences. They don’t feel so alone."
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Therapeutic Activities that Heal and Empower
The camp offers a variety of therapeutic activities tailored to support the emotional and psychological needs of its young attendees. Massey, who also authored a workbook titled "Cancer Schmancer," uses age-appropriate cancer education and therapeutic art interventions to help campers navigate their emotions and experiences.
One notable project involves campers creating their own "healing gardens." They plant flowers in containers to take home, a symbolic act of nurturing life even in the face of adversity. "Through this project, we encourage conversations about caring for something even on days when you may not want to, how nature can be healing, and the feelings and emotions that arise while planting flowers," says Massey. "It provides opportunities for kids and teens to open up about their reality and opinions in an organic way."
Expanding Reach and Ensuring Consistency
Camp Sparkle’s reach has expanded significantly since its inception. From its origins in Seattle, it now includes camps in Spokane, Bellevue, Tacoma, and, for the first time this year, Woodinville. Massey and Assistant Camp Director Morgan Weidner work year-round to ensure the camp’s success, from coordinating with locations and partners to securing donations and supplies.
"Michelle Massey meets with each family that enters our program, conducting initial and Camp Sparkle intakes to build relationships and address individual needs," Millman notes. "This personalized approach is integral to the camp’s impact."
Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Milestones
Operating Camp Sparkle at no cost to families presents significant financial challenges. "Funding is always an issue, and we now have waitlists," Millman admits. "Our biggest challenge is serving all the kids and families who need us. Ideally, we’d love to run the camps for multiple weeks in each location."
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Despite these challenges, the camp has achieved remarkable milestones. "In my eight months as CEO, my biggest achievement has been connecting with wonderful people who believe in our mission," says Millman. "As a two-time cancer survivor, ensuring no one faces cancer alone is a mission close to my heart."
The Voices of Campers
The impact of Camp Sparkle is perhaps best expressed through the voices of its campers. Ada, age 11, shares, "I feel like it’s okay to talk about it. My mom has cancer and other people here understand. I’m so calm about it now." Chase, age 14, whose mother passed away from cancer, adds, "It’s a place where everyone can enjoy themselves while they are here. We all have something we can relate to, deep down." Eleanor, age 10, said, “It means talking through your problems about cancer and upsetting things can sometimes be hard.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Camp Sparkle
Millman and her team have ambitious plans for the future of Camp Sparkle. "Our top priorities include expanding our reach into other communities throughout Washington state and addressing the current waitlists by offering more camp weeks," she says. "We are grateful to do this work and help these families at no cost to them, and we want to continue for at least another 20 years."
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