The Magic of Camp Kivita
My name is Suzy, and I am a nurse at Camp Kivita. However, before becoming a nurse, I was a camper myself. I was born with congenital restrictive cardiomyopathy, which required me to receive a lifesaving heart transplant at 6 months old. Life after transplant was a roller coaster ride to say the least with constant appointments, medications, bloodwork, transfusions, and surgeries but 25 years later I am alive and thriving!
Growing up with a heart transplant was challenging. Hospital visits, medications, and periods of feeling sick without understanding why made having a ‘normal’ childhood difficult. Scars, food restrictions, medications during lunch time, and activity restrictions allowed for bullying and a constant feeling of not belonging. This all changed when I went to Camp Kivita.
Attending Camp Kivita as a 9 year old
When I was 9 years old my parents told me I was going to camp for a week. At first, I was hesitant, but still was sent without having much say. At camp I was surrounded by other kids who also had scars, medications, and restrictions alike. At camp, I could participate in activities including canoeing, swimming, and rock climbing, all which I had never done before! This helped me grow confidence in participating in new activities all while feeling completely supported and encouraged by the camp staff. Time at camp provided the opportunity to meet new people who also had organ transplants. We were able to compare scars and medications, share stories about appointments and hospital experiences. Camp provided a safe space. A space where a child would never be judged based on what their body looked like, what foods they could/couldn’t eat and what activities they could/couldn’t partake in. Camp became a place where for the first time in my life I felt heard, valued, and understood. It allowed me to grow confidence in myself that 9-year Suzy never thought was possible. I was able to realize that anything is possible.
Camp Kivita became my sanctuary - a place where belonging and understanding flourished among other campers. Camp became a place where friendships were made, and each child’s uniquely similar experiences allowed us to create a bond like no other. The friendships I made at camp will always be so special to me. They are the friends I turn to first whenever having questions about experiences with medications, appointments, and navigating the ups and downs as a transplant recipient. The camaraderie and understanding found at camp was invaluable, offering a sense of belonging and solidarity that is hard to find elsewhere.
My experience as a transplant recipient deeply influenced my decision to become a nurse and specialize in pediatric transplant! I was able to be on the receiving end of the tremendous care that all the nurses and doctors provided to my family and witness first hand the positive impact their care had on my family and I. Through my nursing practice I bring clinical knowledge blended with empathy learned through my own transplant experience. I am able to understand the anxieties of surgeries, frustrations with setbacks, and celebrations of milestones. My goal is to care for each patient and family with dignity and respect while empowering patients and families with knowledge and support. It’s a privilege to connect my personal journey and clinical knowledge, guiding families through their own transplant journeys.
Now a nurse at Camp Kivita!
My journey is one that continues to unfold, and through it all I am constantly reminded of the importance of Camp Kivita. From a lens as a nurse, I witnessed the profound impact of Camp Kivita on patients' lives. I see the camaraderie and mutual support that lifted me on my darkest days now fostering hope and healing in others. I have the opportunity to witness the magical bonds and friendships made between campers. Children who were once shy in the hospital find their voice and confidence in laughing, dancing, and singing with others. I have seen children partake in activities such as canoeing, swimming, and rock climbing that once seemed impossible to do. It is beautiful to see the sense of relief and joy come across parents' faces when they interact with other families who share similar experiences to them. Children are able to connect with others and find similarities in their experiences bringing a sense of belonging and solidarity that is hard to find elsewhere. Speaking with both patients and families and seeing the smiles come across their face when recalling these memories reminds me how truly magical camp is.
Camp Kivita is a testament to the importance of organ donation. Organ donation provides hope, healing, and the opportunity to achieve dreams that were once unimaginable. Each camper represents the profound gift of life and reminds us of the incredible impact of selfless acts. As I continue my journey, I am reminded of the profound impact that Camp Kivita had on my life and how I would truly not be who I am today without it.
