One of the first positive memories I have is attending the first kids’ cancer camp in Alberta. I am proud to be an official veteran camper. I believe I have attended camp more years than anyone to date. I remember certain things about that first camp— the songs the counsellors sang on our bus, the awesome way we were able to leave the hospital behind us and just be kids. We had mud fights, food fights, wacky carnival days, face painting, a turkey dinner and dance and an opportunity to make lifelong friends. I was always disheartened when we left and had to say goodbye. I miss those years but I am glad that they will always be part of my childhood.

Last year, I was a camp counsellor for a cancer camp weekend for teens. It was a chance to meet and hang out with teenagers that went through the exact same thing I did. We had lots of fun, talked about our experiences, and shed some healing tears. What an amazing road I have walked since being a camper myself.

When I was asked to join KCCFA’s new Mentors for Life program, I was really excited. Mentors for Life, is a group of survivors committed to reaching out to others who are facing cancer. The group had just begun to make plans when my grandpa was diagnosed with cancer of the esophagus. It was like a dagger hit my heart. I was so afraid for him. He got very sick right away. I held onto hope and prayer. You have to have hope, or else there would only be despair.

My grandpa’s cancer was terminal. As I sat by his side, I saw incredible strength and dignity. From his strength, I found my inspiration. I told him that I was going to fight hard for cancer research. I told him that I would raise money in our group, by shaving my long blonde hair for him. Sadly, my grandpa passed away. I grieved and I still do but I set about organizing my first ever head shave with the mentorship group. It took everything I had to do this.

When I was diagnosed, I had only a 10 per cent chance of surviving. There’s a reason I am still alive today. This year, I am representing cancer survivors and KCCFA at the International Confederation of Childhood Cancer Parents Organization (ICCCPO) in Oslo. OCCCPO is making a difference in the quality of life for kids with cancer all over the world. I want to help. I can tell conference delegates what camp meant to me and what a difference it made in my life. I think countries around the world need to know about our fantastic program and what a program like ours can do for their kids.

When I think of a symbol that reflects my experiences, I look down at the scars etched across my stomach, my collarbone and back. They remind me that I am proud and happy to be a cancer survivor and that I am proud to share my happiness with others.

Kids Cancer Care News, Fall 2004