My name is Genevieve Pietruszynski and I have been coming to an oncology camp since I was 5 years old. This year I have the honor of being the Co-Director of Programs at both oncology and sibling camp. One of my favorite parts of camp has been singing camp songs and now I get to lead the team that sings all day! One of the most wonderful and fulfilling experiences of my life has been being a part of the team that creates the magic of camp. I am so excited to help out at Camp Heart Connection and help make camp well… camp! This experience holds a special place in my heart and has pushed me to grow into the person I am today! 

Camp fills my heart and brings me so much pure joy. Helping out this organization is something I chose to do out of pure joy. I am so grateful for an opportunity to experience this kind of raw happiness and I cannot truly describe the feeling camp elicits. I have been in heavy anticipation for camp season. The songs and all the program planning keep me going in during a stressful school year. This camp means so much to me and it is so critical for campers and families as it creates hope which is a powerful emotion that saves lives. Camp Heart Connection creates connections that are a piece of the puzzle for families dealing with the heaviness of childhood cancer. I fundraise to ensure that camp can still provide these lasting memories and friends. Most importantly, I fundraise to ensure hope continues. Until there is a cure, there is camp. 

I will always cherish the memories created while attending camp. I have missed tping the boy’s cabin or laughing at my friend’s attempts at ‘bobcat sounds’ or playing nine squad in the rain. I look back fondly at sitting in the arts and crafts center for hours bonding and making hundreds of friendship bracelets. Camp made me feel normal, it gave me a place to talk about growing up in and out of doctor’s offices, it made me feel like I could be a kid. Childhood cancer forces you to grow up and understand illness and life in a way no other 5, 6, 7, even 13 year olds ever would. Oncology camp allowed me to feel like just a kid again and every year I knew I would be okay as long as I could make it to camp. Even though it's been several years I know that if you put me back with my cabin it would be like no time has passed. I would jump back on to the dance floor at the all camp dance with them in a heartbeat! My time at Camp Heart Connection will forever be cherished but it is even more rewarding to help other kids like me make similar memories. 

When my sister first went to sibling camp I saw a transformation in her. Children’s Cancer Connection has created a safe space for siblings to share their struggles. Sibling camp allows sibs to have someone understand them on a deeper level. There, they can be seen and put in the spotlight. Sibling camp is a huge part of caring for the whole family within Children’s Cancer Connection. This camp is absolutely incredible and I am so thankful for how much it helped my sister and I know it has helped so many siblings in families affected by childhood cancer. 

Cancer treatments are extremely extensive so all the camp fun is free of charge. Please consider donating to this amazing organization so that Camp Heart Connection can remain a life changing experience that is a source of joy and laughter. I am already counting down the days until I can be back at camp! As a former camper I am eternally grateful for the donors who have allowed camp to happen! Your kindness is deeply appreciated and I would like to thank you for your support in sponsoring cabins!!

Much love!

Genevieve Pietruszynski