Dear Camp Simcha Staff,

As the parents of a super-happy camper, there are just no words that would do justice to the overwhelming feelings of indebtedness to Camp Simcha. If a picture is worth a thousand words, then Avi’s smile upon his return from camp is worth a thousand pictures!

Our decision to send our seven year old son Avi to Camp Simcha was not an easy one. He was so young and had gone through a particularly difficult year. We were concerned about the medical care he requires and the round-the-clock alertness his condition demands of his caregivers. As parents, we find it strenuous and exhausting. How would strangers ever manage his care? And that was just the medical angle of our concerns.

Another consideration, which was cause for deliberation, was his age. Seven is very young for sleep away camp even in the best situations! Would he be homesick? Would he get lost in the crowd? Was Camp Simcha able to take responsibility for Avi’s needs physically, socially, and medically and all it entails? It was a tall order.

Our apprehension was short lived. From the moment of what seemed like seventy-five clowns descended upon our car to welcome Avi to camp until he returned two weeks later, Avi was the shining star in a world created just for him.

Of course, we missed him immensely. But as the first week wore on, and we actually discovered ourselves sleeping through an entire night, and spending time at home without the presence of a nurse, we felt intense relief from the pressure that is our constant companion. We hadn’t even been aware of our desperate need to come up for air! We just couldn’t get enough of the relaxation and peace, which reigned in our home.

We had been so afraid to let go, to let Avi enjoy time in childhood fun and freedom entrusted to the care of Camp Simcha, that we didn’t realize that both he and his parents needed some respite from that hovering presence, that omnipresent tension.

What a magical time it was for Avi! Each day was mega fun and excitement! From a hot air balloon, to singers and a dog show, between motorcycling and helicopter rides, the top notch medical care he received did not even merit a dot on his Camp Simcha map.

In the devoted and lovingly enthusiastic care of his counselor, Avi thrived physically, emotionally, and socially. The Avi whom we had feared would be homesick did not want to come home! We would perhaps have been slighted, had we not personally witnessed the magic woven by his counselor and the entire Camp Simcha staff.

Avi came home with a healthy glow, fuller cheeks, and a brighter smile! He matured into an independent, bright-eyed and content little boy. We hadn’t realized how important it was for us to let go and allow him to thrive-away from his parents.

It was Avi’s first Camp Simcha experience, and he’s already anticipating next summer. The look on his face as he spoke to his counselor who called to recount their good times and to sing their Camp Simcha songs together is beyond description. It was fifteen minutes of heavenly bliss for Avi, which is understandable since he was talking to an angel!

We stood there watching Avi, hearts swelling, with gratitude to his counselor, and to the entire staff of Camp Simcha. This profound appreciation is etched in our hearts, as are our sincerest wishes for bracha ad b’li dei to each and every one of you.

How aptly named is your organization- for you truly are a lifeline.

Sincerely Yours,

*All names have been changed