Wellstar Golisano Children’s Hospital of Georgia recently brought together 38 children from across the state for Camp Rainbow—an experience designed to offer something many of these young patients rarely get: the chance to simply be kids again. 

For more than 40 years, Camp Rainbow has provided a weeklong, overnight summer camp for children ages 5 to 17 who are facing cancer or are in remission and their siblings. In a safe, medically supervised environment, campers can participate in traditional camp activities while still receiving the care they need. 

“This is a place when they can forget about treatment, forget about cancer, forget about chemo and just be a kid,” said former camper, now counselor, Kendra Eady. 

With volunteer medical staff on site 24/7, campers can safely step outside the routines of hospital visits and treatment schedules. It’s not uncommon for a child to head from archery to the medical shed for care, then right back to fishing or crafts. “It treats the soul in addition to treating their cancer,” said Kym Allen, Child Life manager and Director of Camp Rainbow. 

Throughout the week, campers build friendships, gain confidence and reconnect with the joy of childhood. From boating and basketball to goat yoga and creative arts, each activity is designed to foster connection, laughter and a sense of normalcy during an otherwise difficult time. 

Special moments also come through support from the broader community. This year, players from the University of Georgia football team visited Camp Rainbow, spending time with campers and creating lasting memories. For many of the children, these interactions are uplifting reminders that they are surrounded by people who care deeply about their journey. 

Powered by Philanthropy 

Camp Rainbow is made possible through the generosity of donors and the support of our community and partners. Philanthropic support helps fund every aspect of the camp, ensuring families can participate at no cost.  

This support is especially important because programs like Camp Rainbow go beyond traditional medical care. While treatment addresses the physical impact of cancer, experiences like camp support emotional healing, resilience and connection—elements that are just as critical for a child’s well-being. Research and national camp initiatives show that pediatric oncology camps provide a sense of community, confidence and hope for children and their families during some of life’s most challenging moments.  

By making a gift to Wellstar Golisano Children’s Hospital of Georgia, donors can directly impact programs like Camp Rainbow and turn their generosity into meaningful experiences that help children laugh, grow and create lifelong memories. To give forward so more kids have the chance to experience a week filled with joy, friendship and the freedom to simply be a kid, visit https://foundation.wellstar.org/givetowgchog/.