A decade of heart: Camp Lionheart celebrates 10 years
Penn State Health Golisano Children’s Hospital continues tradition of giving children with heart disease the chance to enjoy the fun and freedom of summer camp
Camp Lionheart recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, bringing together children and teens with heart disease for a week of traditional summer camp activities in a medically supported environment.
Founded by Penn State Health Golisano Children’s Hospital in partnership with Ellie’s Heart Foundation, the camp provided young people ages 12 to 18 the opportunity to enjoy swimming, boating, mountain biking, a ropes course and other camp experiences while receiving around-the-clock support from volunteer physicians, nurses and other medical professionals.
The camp was offered free of charge through support from Children’s Miracle Network. It took place July 26-31.
Children’s Hospital staff served as counselors throughout the week, helping campers build confidence, independence and friendships with peers who share similar experiences.
“The best part was seeing these children simply be kids rather than patients,” said Tomeka Greene, a physician assistant at Penn State Health Golisano Children’s Hospital.
Camp Director Saul Elertas said the camp was created to give children with congenital heart conditions a place to have fun and connect with others facing similar challenges.
Former camper Carl Thompson Jr., now a counselor, said volunteering and encouraging the next generation of campers was his way of giving back to the camp that supported him as a child.
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