Kids Living with Cancer Start a Week of Summer Fun at Camp Quality

Kids living with cancer experience a lot of tough days. But this week, a total of 84 kids from throughout the Chicago metropolitan region are in Frankfort to indulge in adventures like riding on a motorcycle, dancing, swimming, tree climbing and more. 

This is Camp Quality. It's a place where the kids along with their designated companion for the week can reclaim some experiences that make being a kid fun. This is the 19th year that a portion of Camp Manitoqua Retreat Center, 8122 W. Sauk Trail, is turned over to Camp Quality campers, said Carol Oostman, registration coordinator. 

"Cancer is scary, and it hurts," she said.

Camp Quality becomes an "oasis to kids with cancer."

It's a safe place, "where they can take their meds and then jump in the pool; where they can try new things; where they can fit in; where they have the hope of being like other kids."

Campers began checking in at 8:30 a.m. Aug. 4, and by 3:30 p.m. they were out riding motorcycles or Hummers. The motorcycle rides were made possible by volunteers from the Chicago Chapter of Blue Knights, an international law enforcement officers club. 

The camp has a full on-site medical staff for the entire week, she said. Each child's medical regimen is documented and followed precisely. 

The camp is made possible through Camp Quality USA. In the USA, there are presently 15 camps established in 12 states. More than 700 children participate in our camps each summer, and many more participate in Camp Quality activities throughout the year, the website explains. 

Find out more about Camp Quality or donate online at the Camp Quality website. 

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