Camp Sunshine, located in Casco Maine has been helping families with chronically ill children for 20 years. Every summer, the weeks are divided by disease, so that each week focuses on one specific disease and all who attend have a child with that disease. The end of August is usually Lupus week. Over the years we have had many families attend lupus week at camp sunshine, sponsored by us as well as the SLE Lupus Foundation, NYC.

Camp Sunshine is a unique experience that all of our members who have attended have never forgotten. Each family sleeps in their own separate air-conditioned room, which sleeps up to 8 people comfortably. During the day the children are separated by age group and participate in many fun activities including; archery, canoeing, swimming, wall climbing, volleyball, hockey, basketball, arts and crafts, computers, and more. While the children play the parents can attend support groups, play games specifically made for them, or they can relax in the shade and read. Every night of the week there is a different party, ranging from talent shows, masquerade balls, and formal dinners. It is an experience like no other, where every parent and child who attends, knows what every other parent and child there goes through because their going through it as well. It’s a bonding experience that helps everyone in the family cope with the day-to-day reality of having a child with lupus.

Please contact us at 516-783-3370 if you are interested in getting an application for camp sunshine’s lupus week. Transportation to the camp is provided free of charge as well, if needed. If your child has lupus, this is an experience you should really consider. Our members who have attended have told us it has changed their lives, and given them life-long friendships that are very special. You can check out Camp Sunshine on their website at www.campsunshine.org.

Camp Sunshine is a worthy organization. If you don’t have a child with lupus, maybe you would consider donating your time as a volunteer, money or household items. They have a list on their website of items they are always in need of, and all donations as tax deductible. Volunteers are always welcome, and needed, and of course monetary donations keep the camp running and updating.