Camp Burnt Gin is an overnight camp for children who have special health care needs. The camp runs form early June until mid August. They host seven sessions; each one lasts six days. The camp provides a fun, safe summer camp experience to 460 children and young adults aged 7-25. Possibly the most amazing thing about this camp, is that it is provided at no cost to the families. Family Connection was honored to be part of their registration day this past week for session two. It was a wonderful opportunity to interact with the children and families on such an emotional day. The children were so excited to be there and could not wait to take a tour of their cabins. For those that have attended camp for many years they were glad to be reunited with old friends and ready to get started on the camp games. Camp Burnt Gin offers a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy. From swimming, kayaking, fine arts and nature study there is something for everyone!
It was interesting to see the parent’s reactions to letting their child go. They want their child to have the camp experience that they will reflect on for years, but they have so much anxiety about being away from them for so long. Saying good-bye for six days seemed like it was the hardest thing they have ever done. Parents were checking with the nurses to ensure that they knew all about the medications, and writing daily instructions with multiple phone numbers to reach them in case of any questions. It was perfectly normal for these parents to have as much anxiety as they were, because for some it was the first time being away from their child.
Although Camp Burnt Gin’s goal is to provide these children with a traditional summer camp experience, there is another experience that is just as important…RESPITE for those parents. Whether they work to support their families and care for their children when they get home, or care for their children 24/7, parents need a mental and physical break!
We hope that parents take advantage of their children being at Camp Burnt Gin this summer, and take the time to rest.
For more information about Camp Burt Gin follow this link http://www.scdhec.gov/Health/ChildTeenHealth/ServicesforChildrenwithSpecialHealthCareNeeds/CBG/