Campers received a warm welcome at the Friends and Relatives Center before they head on their trip
The Friends and Relatives Center at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is filled with an excited, yet nervous energy. Parents and volunteers are hustling to prepare for the arrival of some very special guests. In a few moments, dozens of children will be arriving by bus from a week of camp in Burton, Texas. This was no ordinary camp, however, but rather an extraordinary one.
Camp Discovery is a week-long summer camp aimed at providing young people with skin conditions the opportunity to experience traditional summer camp activities among those with similar conditions.
Staff at Bush Airport have been working with Camp Discovery for several years to assist in coordinating the arrivals and departures of dozens of families to the airport. Volunteers from both Camp Discovery and Houston Airports do everything to make the travel process smoother for these special guests.
“Many of the children have never met someone who looks like them, or has experienced the same life challenges,” says Margaret Hirsch, Medical Director for Camp Discovery in Burton, TX. “They may not have the exact same condition, but they have shared experiences.”
The camp was founded in 1993 and, sponsored by the American Academy of Dermatology, hosts six weeks of camp in five locations across the country. No camper is ever burdened by the cost of Camp Discovery. All costs, including transportation are provided by the American Academy of Dermatology.
“I enjoyed the feeling that I’m not alone in this, and I can overcome these struggles,” says Zachary Hamm, a camper from 2009 to 2013. Hamm is now volunteering to support a program that brought him confidence and belonging.
The most important piece of this camp, says Hirsch, is the emphasis on inclusion and activities that celebrate being a kid.
“We don’t necessarily talk about skin or skin conditions, but rather focus on character-building. We provide them the opportunity to experience new things in a safe, controlled environment.”
To learn more about Camp Discovery, visit https://aad.org/public/kids/camp-discovery