I just returned from a week at Ukandu Family Camp. If you haven’t heard of this incredible organization that supports children and families experiencing childhood cancer, please check them out. It’s an honor to join these families, the staff, and volunteers every year. And this year was no different. Here are my three takeaways from the week:
- We can do hard things – If a parent can hold their child’s hand through multiple rounds of treatment, indecision, painful procedures, and life or death choices, then we can all do hard things. If a caregiver can show up for a child when no one else will, we can all do hard things. If a 17-year-old, or a 6-year-old, or 1 year-old can look cancer in the eye, then we can all do hard things. If an entire village can show up to mourn the loss of a child, a sweet spirit in the world, then we can all do hard things.
- We need connection – Connection matters. Relationships heal. Having stories held in sacred spaces allows the process to unfold. Connection happens 1:1, in groups, and in crowds of people who “get you”. When we have connection with others, we feel less alone.
- Fun is healing – Ukandu believes in outrageous fun. Every day, we dress up, play, and laugh. From morning songs to evening campfire skits, joy can be heard throughout camp. And that joy leads to a whole lot of healing. Fun and play are magical antidotes to pain and sorrow.
After 9 days with Ukandu, I feel so many things – exhaustion, joy, relief, inspiration, grief, silliness, sorrow, wonder, connection, and belonging. I still have camp songs in my head as I hum about my day. Campfire smoke lingers on my clothes. Big hugs warm my heart. Every story I heard holds precious space in my body.
I am so grateful for my connection with this group of amazing humans.
As they say: Until there’s a cure, there’s camp!
Thanks for letting me share
