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(Easter Seals Camp Horizon - Bragg Creek, Alberta) This summer, children living with kidney disease and transplants from all over Alberta experienced a magical week at Kidney Kids Camp in Kananaskis. Thanks to the generous donations from supporters, The Kidney Foundation of Canada makes it possible for these kids to attend this extraordinary camp each year. Kids with kidney disease rarely get to go to general summer camps due to significant medical and financial barriers. So, every dollar spent on Kidney Kids Camp is invaluable, providing truly priceless experiences. The children return home with newfound confidence and lifelong friendships.

The dedicated nursing team from both Northern and Southern Alberta demonstrated exceptional care and connection with the kidney kids at Camp. Their bond with the campers was evident, mirroring the friendships formed among the kids themselves. The nurses were visibly moved as they shared what the camp experience meant to them, highlighting the profound impact it had on everyone involved.

Tevin Ma & Keziah Salem

"Seeing the kids enjoying the day, not worrying about their health but having fun and socializing. Where their condition does not limit them, they are not left out of activities, and there is no judgment. It is so sweet to see them create friendships. It really is a beautiful thing." Keziah Salem, Calgary RN and 2-time Camp Nurse.

Campers’ days are filled with activities specially tailored to them. The camp ensures each child’s safety and medical and emotional well-being while also being packed full of fun. The camp experience encourages them to connect with peers facing similar challenges and overcome the perceived limitations of their condition. Campers spent their days exploring, crafting, and laughing, with access to a splash pool, pedal carts, climbing walls, outdoor games, and much more.

“I just really like seeing the kids in a normal environment. To see them play with other kidney kids that actually understand. To see them healthy, running, joking, and not confined to a bed is quite rewarding.” Tevin Ma, Calgary RN and 3-time Camp Nurse.

On the day we visited, campers were split into teams with all the other kids at camp to play a massive game of Camp Bingo. This forced them to explore the camp, preform activities, and race to the finish! Later in the afternoon the weather held out and they were able to enjoy a water fight and splash party.

The campers can truly just be kids here, and their parents also get the rare opportunity for a much-needed rest, knowing their child will be safe and cared for while having had the best time.

Your contributions make it happen. Kidney Kids Camp by The Kidney Foundation of Canada is provided at no cost to families living with kidney disease. Everything is covered: nurses, camp accommodations, transportation, food, and more.

At camp, these kidney kids not only conquer the physical and emotional challenges of their condition but also find a support network that lasts a lifetime.

To learn more about Kidney Kids Camp contact us or visit: https://kidney.ca/Support/Programs-Services/Summer-Camps

Plus, Read Aidan’s Story.

Photo Credit: The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Michelle Hofer