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Imagine all the fun, friendships and activities of a traditional summer camp—only online! This July, youth aged 11-17 years living with cystic fibrosis and their siblings gathered online from across Canada for Camp Fromaway, an engaging virtual camp hosted by Cystic Fibrosis Canada, Camp Maple Leaf and Upopolis.
This year’s camp continued the initiative started last year, providing an online space for over 20 campers to connect, engage in activities and learn together. Throughout the week, campers connected with others who share the experience of living with cystic fibrosis.
“It helped me realize I’m not alone,” shared one camper with another youth, adding “I loved it, I would do it every week if I could.”
Each day of the camp focused on different aspects of personal growth, creativity and connection, with activities facilitated by a trained child-life specialist and hosted in a secure online environment. A young adult volunteer co-facilitator, who also lives with CF, helped engage and inspire campers. Everyone participated in a range of activities, from arts and crafts to interactive games, aimed at fostering self-expression and building coping strategies. Educational sessions offered insights into living with cystic fibrosis, helping campers better understand the rare disease and develop skills to manage it.
“It was so great to have my daughter practice skills such as pill swallowing and discuss medication adherence with other youth with CF; it was much more meaningful than having her parents nag at her the whole time!” – Camper Parent, 2024.
The virtual format of Camp Fromaway allowed campers to experience the magic of camp without leaving their homes, ensuring that everyone, regardless of where they live, can participate. The camp was more than just fun and games—with the focus of building a community where youth with cystic fibrosis and their siblings can connect, share their experiences, and support one another, helping reduce the feelings of isolation. Campers are invited to stay connected with each other through Upopolis’s online community and through more upcoming virtual meetups. People interested in being informed about camp and similar opportunities to connect with youth with CF can sign up to stay informed.
Looking ahead, there’s anticipation for what next year’s camp might bring, with a focus on continuing to provide meaningful opportunities for youth with CF. Stay tuned for more information Camp Fromaway 2025!