My team
My Story
Just over four years ago, my nephew had a headache. It continued for a couple of weeks and on a Saturday morning, my partner took him to the emergency room. By the end of day, he was in surgery at Sick Kids to remove a potentially fatal brain tumour that was later diagnosed as cancer. This was in Fall 2018. Between 2018 and 2022, Justin had multiple recurrences of his cancer and was in and out of hospital and Bloorview. Every time, Justin's first request upon leaving was to ask about attending Camp Ooch.
When Justin expressed interest in a camp that he'd heard about for kids with cancer, we immediately began to investigate it. Within a month, in August 2019, he attended his first Muskoka overnight camp and the cost was nothing for our family. After his first camp, he attended Ooch Camps in Toronto, as well even participated in an online video "campfire" during Covid time. The smile that he had being able to participate in this, and the joy I saw when I attended with him, is my reason to run this race and fundraise. As a runner, participating in this is the least I can do to help kids like my nephew attend these camps at no cost.
Two years ago in a brief reprieve of remission, Justin scootered along with our group as we ran the virtual race. Unfortunately, Justin's cancer returned in fall of 2021 and he passed away on January 28, 2022. As much as it's hard to do this without him, I know he'd want other kids to be able to attend the camp where he met some of his dearest friends, and had some of his most memorable moments. Camp Ooch allowed Justin to be a regular kid, and that's why I am running.
Thanks for your donation.
Description
Help bring joy and laughter to kids affected by cancer or serious illness
A diagnosis of childhood cancer or serious illness changes life in an instant. For kids and families, their schedule suddenly revolves around medical appointments and hospital stays, with long absences from school. There is no time for simple joys like friendships, birthday parties or sport activities.
Campfire Circle is passionate about helping kids to just be kids, once again. By supporting their in-hospital, community and overnight camp programs, you will help bring joy and laughter to kids and families during their most challenging times, at no cost to them.
As part of the Campfire Circle community, you are helping to create opportunities year-round for kids to build friendships and social skills, develop self-confidence and resiliency, and improve their overall wellbeing.
More than a thousand kids were diagnosed with cancer during the pandemic—the need is greater now more than ever. Your support ensures that Campfire Circle’s critical camp-inspired programs will reach even more kids and families across Ontario. Your gift makes life-changing experiences possible.
Thank you for helping to build a world where children thrive and families heal.
Achievements
Recent donors
| Donation date | Donor name | Donation amount |
|---|---|---|
| May 01 | Melissa | $27.41 |
| Apr 30 | Leah | Undisclosed amount |
| Apr 24 | Scott | $27.41 |
| Apr 19 | R | $161.58 |
| Apr 14 | Lisa Bertrand | $54.24 |
| Apr 14 | Moonyene Boyd | $75.00 |
| Apr 13 | Sarah | Undisclosed amount |
| Apr 13 | Madrene Boyle | $27.41 |
| Apr 13 | Julaine Vandenbrink | $107.91 |
| Apr 02 | Lucas Hynes | $107.91 |
