Camp Simba is a kids’ camp with a purpose - to give the gift of hope and friendship to children aged 7-12 years old, whose parents have cancer or have passed away from cancer.
As grown-ups, we have various sources of support, but the simple needs of these children are often overlooked. Through fun activities such as art and craft, beach games and scavenger hunts, the camp and its volunteers aim to help children put aside their sadness and just be children again.
Thus every year, students from the Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School and NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine will come together for this common objective.
Tessa, who was a facilitator last year, shared with me that the main emphasis of the camp is really just to have fun.
When asked if she would be involved in counselling the kids, she replied no. “Our aim is not to bring up their unhappiness and dwell on these things. However, if a child voluntarily talks about it, we will provide a listening ear.”
The committee brings in a psychiatrist to train the facilitators prior to the camp, to equip them with listening and counselling skills.
I believe every child attendee has a unique story to tell.
And the best part about the camp is? Well, let’s hear it from them…
One camp participant shared that the camp really helped him to build up his social skills, and that it was a great opportunity to make new friends — friendships he would cherish for life.
Another participant said, “It made me less shy and I learnt to work in a team and cheer each other on.”
The friendships and support found lasts well beyond the 3 days. Through the year, the medical students also organise numerous reunion trips to help maintain the friendships forged during the camp, allowing the children to know that they are never alone should they need someone to be there for them.
Let’s also see it through pictures…
Building sandcastles
Water war!
A hug of friendship and gratitude
This year, Camp Simba will be held at Sentosa, from 7-9th June 2013.
Where: Cultural Hotel
When: 7 - 9th June 2013
Theme: Amazon!
Participants will have to fulfill the following criteria:
(1) Aged 7 - 12 years old
(2) Parents/immediate family members undergoing cancer treatment, in remission, or deceased.
(3) Able to understand and speak English
(4) Physically and emotionally healthy
If you know a child who would benefit from Camp Simba, do encourage him/her to sign up. Registration ends 15 May.
A meaningful initiative by the medical students, a way to give back to the society and stay firmly rooted as we count our blessings of a daily healthy existence. Would help to spread the word about Camp Simba too!
Angie recently posted..Easy Mothers’ Day Craft Ideas for Kids
Thanks for sharing this, Angie! Yes, I thought it was really meaningful, and such a good way to connect with people whom otherwise we do not often think of / would never get to know personally.
Thanks for sharing this June. I will definitely help to spread the word as well. Will you be helping out at the camp?
Zee recently posted..Public Garden at National Museum
Thanks Zee! Am thinking of dropping by on one of the camp days…Would you be keen to go too? Will let you know when, if you would like to visit too.
I wouldn’t mind actually! Do let me know if it’s possible?
Zee recently posted..Of Birthdays and Motherhood
I think it’s possible, will PM you to let you know when!
Thanks for sharing! What a great initiative. Will share it with my friends too.
Jasmine recently posted..Creativity Spotlight on Sarah DiNardo
Thanks Jasmine!