Eastern Kentucky University
Children with Cancer: Perspectives of a University Camp Experience
Institution
Eastern Kentucky University
Faculty Advisor/ Mentor
Jon McChesney
Abstract
Camp U-ROC (Using Recreation to Overcome Challenges) was a service-learning program planned and delivered by a senior-level class at EKU in conjunction with the Kentucky Cancer Program and the Madison County Breast Cancer Support Group. University students were divided into three teams to plan, deliver and evaluate their recreation program. This qualitative research focused on student, participant and parent thoughts about the program. The impetus for this program was recognizing the need to build social support networks for children that have cancer. The camp experience has been identified as an effective modality for reducing anxiety and fear in children with cancer. The interaction with other children with a similar condition and the resulting social support are important psychological outcomes of a camp experience. Winfree, Williams and Powell (2009) said, “These children can have a variety of limitations, but first and foremost, they are still children and want to be treated the same as children without cancer with opportunities to run, play, swim, and enjoy being with other kids.” University students identified the experience as beneficial. One student reflected, “I would love to have one tenth of the strength and courage that these young kids show in their battle against cancer. I have learned so much from them about embracing life. I get chills thinking that for a few days these kids could just be themselves and not worry about dying, because for that moment in time throughout the camp they were living, having fun, and building friendships.”
Children with Cancer: Perspectives of a University Camp Experience
Camp U-ROC (Using Recreation to Overcome Challenges) was a service-learning program planned and delivered by a senior-level class at EKU in conjunction with the Kentucky Cancer Program and the Madison County Breast Cancer Support Group. University students were divided into three teams to plan, deliver and evaluate their recreation program. This qualitative research focused on student, participant and parent thoughts about the program. The impetus for this program was recognizing the need to build social support networks for children that have cancer. The camp experience has been identified as an effective modality for reducing anxiety and fear in children with cancer. The interaction with other children with a similar condition and the resulting social support are important psychological outcomes of a camp experience. Winfree, Williams and Powell (2009) said, “These children can have a variety of limitations, but first and foremost, they are still children and want to be treated the same as children without cancer with opportunities to run, play, swim, and enjoy being with other kids.” University students identified the experience as beneficial. One student reflected, “I would love to have one tenth of the strength and courage that these young kids show in their battle against cancer. I have learned so much from them about embracing life. I get chills thinking that for a few days these kids could just be themselves and not worry about dying, because for that moment in time throughout the camp they were living, having fun, and building friendships.”