A Glimpse Inside ROC

It's been one week since we wrapped up our first summer camp session. Resident Oncology Camp, better known as ROC, was a huge success! Campers checked in at Dave & Busters and got on the bus headed to YMCA's Camp Marston in Julian. Volunteers lined up singing their camp chant as the kiddos arrived, ready to help them settle into their cabins.

Throughout the week campers engaged in action packed activities! Campers were welcomed with carnival rides, including swings and a frog hopper. There were also various carnival games to enjoy. Campers were surprised with a traditional luau which included a hog roast, for dinner. The night was closed out with a much anticipated memorial camp fire honoring those that we've lost in between camp seasons.

As many of you probably know by now, every day there is a different theme. With each theme every camper and counselor is encouraged to dress up and many of the activities throughout the day are somehow related to the given theme. Tuesday's theme was TV Show Day where they hosted a karaoke session and night hike. For some of the older cabins, they also set up a casino night. Karaoke was definitely a fan (or camper) favorite that night!! I think the s'mores definitely helped make that decision a easy one!

Wednesday's Disney theme led to the most extravagant day of the week. Toy Story stole the show! There were several Woodys, Buzz Lightyears, and Jessies. Finding Nemo also had a good turn out with Squirt and Crush along with Nemo and Dory. There were also some guest appearances by some of the 7 Dwarfs, Edna Mode and The Mad Hatter. With that much spirit it was only fitting to host the Seany's CR4TS talent show! There was lots of singing and dancing along with some really helpful make up tutorials! The campers did an amazing job! Wednesday is also the day when everyone gets to pick out one of the hand made Rosie's quilts! I think it's safe to say everyone got to sleep a little warmer and a little more snug after getting their quilts

July 4th was by far the most patriotic and had the most participation. Everyone was dressed in their red, white and blue for the day. During the day the campers got to witness quite the show down during the Hot Dog Eating Contest. Dr. Vudoo, Mermaid, Batman, Guvnah, Pierogie, BamBam, Talltoes, Spud, WannaHockaloogie and Frenchie all gave it their best shot, but Dr. Vudoo took the crown. They were all given 10 minutes to eat as many hot dogs as possible. These weren't your usual little league hot dogs, these were the Costco size hotdogs that put all others to shame. Dr. Vudoo finished 6 3/4 and Guvnah wasn't too far behind!  The night was topped off with the annual camp dancing with the stars event where fireworks were enjoyed thanks to being televised in the dance hall.

The party continued on Friday with the themed Party Day. The party started with the KOA breakfast and continued on with the annual Mudd Bowl. Despite what you may have heard from your favorite counselors, the Teens stole the show this year! Although it was close, the teens pulled off the win and own all bragging rights until next year's Mudd Bowl where the counselors will attempt to reclaim the crown (good luck with that one!). As always, camp was closed out with their traditional camp fire where everyone has the opportunity to set their intentions for the upcoming year. The teens followed up with a special campfire of their own where they honor all the graduating campers and shared their memories with one another.

In addition to the special daily activities and themes, campers get to enjoy various activities all week long. Arts & crafts provided everyone the chance to make clay pottery. There was also rock climbing, paint balling, and water sports throughout the week. Campers got to enjoy canoeing and paddle boarding on the lake thanks to beautiful weather and lots of rain earlier this year.

Every year it is an incredible blessing to see all the campers enjoying one another and hanging out with one another. It is always amazing to see how much the campers have grown year to year and getting to meet new campers. To all the families, volunteers, sponsors, donors, and campers we say thank you. We appreciate you. We are grateful that you allow us to continuously be a part of your journey and we hope that you will continue to join us for various events throughout the year. For those who are already missing ROC, we will being our second Movie Matinee next Sat. July 20th with The Lion King. Please feel free to join us and continue with the camp spirit!

Until next year, this isn't good bye, but rather a see you later!

Comments