This past weekend, I had the incredible opportunity to volunteer as a camp counselor at Camp Kidney, an Arizona camp dedicated to creating unforgettable memories for kids facing serious kidney issues. Located in the beautiful northern Arizona mountains, Camp Kidney is a place where kids can escape the daily challenges of living with a medical condition and simply enjoy being kids.

Camp Kidney is so much more than just a camp. It’s a community—a lifeline of support, joy, and strength that brings together kids, volunteers, and an absolutely stellar medical team. My role as a counselor was both exciting and humbling. I saw firsthand how much joy this environment brought to the campers, and I felt just as enriched by the experience as they were.

The Camp Experience: Unfiltered Fun for the Kids

For these kids, Camp Kidney is a chance to forget about doctor’s visits, treatments, and restrictions and focus on adventure, friends, and laughter. From arts and crafts to outdoor sports and campfire songs, each day was packed with activities that allowed these campers to try new things, connect with peers, and just be themselves. Watching their faces light up was a constant reminder of why Camp Kidney is so special.

Despite the obstacles they face, these kids radiate resilience and positivity. They dive into activities with an energy that’s both inspiring and humbling, proving that strength can come in small, determined packages.

The Medical Staff: Unsung Heroes

The success of Camp Kidney wouldn’t be possible without the incredible medical staff who volunteer their time to make this camp a safe, accessible place. Each of these professionals is dedicated to ensuring that campers receive the medical supervision they need—everything from daily treatments to emergency care. Their presence allowed kids to enjoy camp activities fully and safely, giving peace of mind to campers and counselors alike.

I can’t say enough about this team’s commitment and compassion. Watching them in action was like seeing superheroes at work—ready to jump in whenever needed and providing unwavering support every step of the way.

The Rewards of Volunteering

As a volunteer, I was blown away by how much I gained from the experience. Being surrounded by these strong, joyful kids reminded me of the power of community and the importance of giving back. And it wasn’t just me—the other counselors I worked alongside shared how much they valued the connections and fulfillment they found at Camp Kidney.

Volunteering here showed me that giving back doesn’t just benefit the campers; it changes the lives of volunteers, too. I left Camp Kidney with a full heart, new friendships, and a deep respect for everyone involved in creating such a meaningful space.

Making a Difference, Together

Camp Kidney is a unique place where people come together to make a difference in the lives of children who need it most. I’m so grateful to have been a small part of it. If you’re inspired by the mission of Camp Kidney, consider supporting the work of the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona. Every dollar goes a long way in making this camp possible and supporting families dealing with kidney disease across the state.

To make a donation and help provide life-changing experiences like Camp Kidney, visit the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona’s donation page. Your support can bring more unforgettable moments to kids facing big challenges.