Camp TLC Brings Summer Camp Experience to Kids with Medical Complexity at St. Mary’s Hospital for Children

A carnival complete with games and prizes, a vibrant talent show, water slides, and even a fun-on-wheels game truck were some of the exciting activities brought to St. Mary’s Kids recently when Camp TLC—an “on the move” performing and creative art camping program visited. Camp TLC (Together Living a Challenge) engaged St. Mary’s Kids in a range of summer recreational events during their weeklong stay at St. Mary’s Hospital for Children. For the patients of St. Mary’s, most of whom are seriously ill and battling complex medical and life-limiting conditions, the action-packed week provided an opportunity to engage in authentic summer camp adventures and activities customized to match their abilities.

For the past four years Camp TLC has brought the summer camp experience to the children at St. Mary’s who cannot attend typical summer camp. This year, each day of camp had its own theme including Pirate Day, Surf Safari, Carnival Day and Rock Star Day—where kids showcased their talents on stage.

Each day brought new adventures, including Color Games, an adaptive version of traditional “Color War” activities. St. Mary’s staff and patients were divided into three teams (red, yellow, and blue) and engaged in a range of games and friendly competition for the title of Color Games Champions. The camp session was funded through a grant from the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation.

When the week came to an end, Caroline Baumis, Founder and Executive Director of Camp TLC shared some thoughtful words. “Thank you St. Mary’s Hospital for Children for an amazing week!” She shared. “The children of St. Mary’s remind all of us to push through our fears, because your dreams are waiting for you. Watching them overcome their fears to participate in Color Games or perform at our Talent Show might be the most beautiful thing I have ever seen.”

View even more photos of the summer camp fun brought to St. Mary’s by Camp TLC.