campers say

Everyone at camp knows what you’ve been through. Kids have had the same experience, so that taking medication is no big deal…At school, I think, ‘why me?’ … at camp it was like ‘wow,’ there are so many other kids like me who’ve been through the same thing. camper, age 11

I learned new stuff from friends at camp … like dancing with girls who were much better at it than me. At first, I was really self-conscious about it, and then I really loved it. camper, age 12

The Madden Open Hearts Camp is a great experience with friends while having fun. camper, age 11

The Madden Open Hearts Camp is fun, lots of kids there that have the same [heart] problem as me. I liked the campfires and roasting marshmallows and making s’mores and singing camp songs! I liked going swimming everyday and the food was great! camper,age 11

I’m looking forward to doing the ropes course, and more hiking, and definitely looking forward to camping up in the mountains. I especially am waiting to see old and new camp friends and counselors. camper, age 13

Camp was very fun last year. I enjoyed the two weeks meeting new friends, having the opportunity to go to theatre events, and having time away.  camper, age 13

The Madden Open Hearts Camp is awesome …I like it because the schedule is well planned and every part of it is good. The Rec. Room was one of my favorite parts: games, air hockey, foose-ball, pool. etc. The rest hour was a good time because we could rest up for the next few activities.…

Camp was so much fun. It was cool because you didn’t have to explain to anybody about your heart problems, everyone just knew how each other felt without having to talk about it. I also liked playing sports because nobody was pressured about winning, everyone just got to have fun. camper, age 12