News

COVID-19 Impact Update

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Hello Friends, For the past several weeks, we have been reminded on numerous occasions just how much hope Camp John Marc gives to its campers, parents, families, volunteers, staff, and medical team members.  We often hear that our campers’ week at Camp is their favorite week of the year and the thing that gives them the confidence and strength to face not only the challenges associated with a chronic illness or major physical challenge, but all the challenges each day … Continued

Health & Safety Notice from Camp John Marc

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At this time, all SPRING Weekend Camps, Camp Reynal and MDA Camp (Summer Camps) have been CANCELED.  Please visit with your camp’s contact (Children’s Health, Cook Children’s Medical Center, Scottish Rite for Children or other health organization) for more information regarding camp. The health and safety of Camp John Marc’s campers, families, volunteers, staff and other trusted partners is our number one priority.  As you are likely aware and following in the news, the Coronavirus (COVID-19) has, and is, causing … Continued

Ben – Hands: Week Four

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Five-year-old Ben came to Camp I-Thonka-Chi (Camp John Marc’s camp for burn survivors). He had suffered burns on over ninety percent of his body in a house fire. Ben sustained other injuries during the fire, including the loss of all of his fingers. CJM staff quickly noted Ben’s extremely quiet, private demeanor. Even his eye contact with others was minimal. Despite this, Ben bravely chose to sign up for swim lessons as his project. Ben was determined to learn to … Continued

Cookout – Hands: Week Three

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The magic of a campfire – American Indian’s “television,” the comfort, camaraderie and confidence of being on a team, and the satisfaction from all the work required to cook a meal outside creates a unique opportunity for therapeutic growth. Peering reflectively into a campfire can lead to unexpected and uninhibited conversation. Because reflective communication is a goal for campers during their time at CJM, all campers are strongly encouraged to participate in cookouts to their fullest individual capabilities. The Camp … Continued

Walking – Hands: Week Two

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Maria had spina bifida, a birth defect that causes a problem with the way the spine and spinal cord develop. Maria had used a wheelchair for the majority of her nine years. Maria’s cabin at Camp TLC were off to the horses for their morning activity. She had never ridden a horse before and was very unsure about being lifted out of her wheelchair to be placed into the saddle on the horse. With encouragement from the wranglers and her … Continued

Poker – Hands: Week One

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As surprising as it might be, poker has long been a beloved activity at Camp John Marc. There’s something exciting about staying up a little late to play a game of cards with friends. The CJM poker tradition provides an opportunity for campers to get outside the normal daily routine, build new friendships, and have valuable conversations. As the campers retrieve, hold, and evaluate their cards, their hands are busy and their minds are at work, which opens them up … Continued

Lake Fork Classic

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The Lake Fork Classic bass fishing tournament is an event that is devoted to raising money for Camp John Marc. It is an ever expanding tournament that was founded out of the love of fishing and benefitting others. In addition to a bass tournament, The Lake Fork Classic is a weekend for the whole family featuring a cookout, raffle, auction and music performance by Texas Country singing-artist Jerrod Medulla. The event will take place on Saturday, April 18th.  For timing … Continued

Live Oak Path

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At Camp John Marc, campers are inspired with confidence for life through discovery, friendship, and play while under the care of the same doctors, nurses, and medical staff that treat the campers throughout the year. This year, campers had an opportunity to express their gratitude to their medical team by writing a note on the “Wall of Gratitude” (a dry erase wall located in Camp’s Medical Building). Some of their notes included: You are my second family. Not all heroes … Continued

Camp Talk Newsletter

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This year, Camp John Marc’s annual “Camp Talk” Newsletter will be delivered in January.  If you are not currently on the mailing list or do not know if you are, you can contact mail@campjohnmarc.org to check or be added to the list. Camp Talk includes news, updates, and current happenings at Camp John Marc.  This edition will feature items such as the “Wall of Gratitude” in the newly renovated medical building, an update on the total campers served, and several … Continued