Each summer, the Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago’s Camp Blackhawk gives its young participants an experience they won’t soon forget. For one week, these kids, ages 6-17, get to come together and enjoy all the fun activities and friendships that come with a trip to camp, while leaving behind various challenges epilepsy can bring to their daily lives. They are all surrounded–-some for the first time–-by dozens of other kids who know exactly what having epilepsy means. They don’t have to worry about what people would think if they had a seizure or if they will be excluded from activities just because they are different. At Camp Blackhawk, epilepsy is the norm.
From swimming to rock climbing, all campers get to experience the fun activities of camp, while in a safe and medically monitored setting. In the months leading up to camp, Foundation case managers build relationships with the campers, as well as their parents, and develop a solid grasp of their needs. Best of all, when campers are having the time of their lives at Camp Blackhawk, those case managers are right along side of them, enjoying every minute just as much!
There is NO cost to attend camp, however, donations are accepted and welcomed. Please be aware that space is limited and campers are accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis. Priority acceptance will be given to people within the Foundation’s service area.
This year Camp will be taking place July 14th -19th, 2013. The Camp-Blackhawk-2013-application is now available… Camp fills up fast, so be sure to submit your application as soon as possible!
For more information, please contact Meredith at 312-939-8622 ext 202 or mtaylor@epilepsychicago.org.
