TEMPLE, Texas — Jenny Damron started Camp Dreamcatcher in 1999. It served 23 kids that summer.
This summer, the camp will serve around 100 children, all of whom are fighting cancer or a blood disorder.
“Everything the camp provides are the same activities that you would find at a traditional summer camp," Damron said. "The activities are modified and adapted for our patients with special needs."
The camp gives kids an opportunity to go canoeing, zip lining, swimming, cook and more.
Kids can go even if they are in the middle of chemotherapy or are prone to bleeding as medical professionals are standing by to help and activities are adapted so every camper can participate.
“So often these kids are told ‘you can’t do this’ in their environments at home and at school,” Damron said. “We don’t say 'you can’t do this.' Everything they can do.”
Parents joined with the Harley Owners Group Sunday to see their kids off.
Many got to enjoy face painting and sitting on motorcycles before leaving.
Damron said one of the most important things the camp does is create a sense of community.
This year, nine staff members are former campers who have returned to pay it forward. Camp Counselor Ty Lewis said he attended as a child, and it changed his life.
"I met a bunch of friends that also had scars, had ports. We were all the same while being different," Lewis said. "It made me feel more comfortable telling my whole story, and being comfortable with it. Made it easier to be in my own skin."