Top Three Questions About Sibling Camp
Today, we’re sharing the top three questions we get about Sibling Camp! Many people don’t realize that Camp Casco hosts a camp that’s just for brothers and sisters of cancer patients. Sibling Camp (previously known as Sibling Retreat) is a special week-long camp where siblings of cancer patients can experience the joy of summer camp and be in the spotlight! Often, siblings can feel jealous or left behind while their brother or sister goes through treatment. Sometimes, siblings can show signs of PTSD or other behavioral issues. Sibling Camp offers kids a place to heal and meet peers who have gone through the same experience. Check out the top three FAQs below:
Q: Does the child who was diagnosed with cancer in my family need to be on active treatment in order for their brother or sister to be eligible?
A: Nope! We believe siblings at any phase of their experience with childhood cancer can benefit from camp. Kids ages 9-17 who have ever had a brother or sister diagnosed with cancer are eligible for Sibling Camp, regardless of their sibling’s current cancer status. This includes bereaved siblings.
Q: My child who was diagnosed with cancer in my family isn't ready to attend Camp Casco yet. Is their brother or sister still eligible?
A: Yes, they are! Campers ages 9-17 who have ever had a brother or sister diagnosed with cancer are eligible and encouraged to attend Sibling Camp, even if the sibling with cancer has never attended or will ever attend Camp Casco. Our goal is to make siblings feel special and like the stars of the show.
Q: Do patients and survivors attend Sibling Camp with their brothers and sisters?
A: Sibling Camp is just for brothers and sisters! Sibling Camp is an extra place for siblings–meaning the brothers and sisters of kids diagnosed with cancer—not for patients and survivors. Our Overnight Camp is a special place for cancer patients and survivors, and our Day Camp is for patients, survivors, and siblings. Sibling Retreat is just for sibs!
Do you have a child who would benefit from Sibling Camp? Our 2024 session is August 5th-10th in the beautiful Berkshires. Click here to apply! If you have additional questions about Sibling Camp or our other programs, send us an email and we’ll be happy to help.