Candlelighters Camp Grey Dove

Out in the fresh air of the beautiful campgrounds near Lake LBJ, Camp Gray Dove took place this year for four days of fun, friends, and some well-deserved attention for the siblings of the children of Candlelighters. Not only did the campers learn that there are others that experience the same emotions and tribulations that a family undergoes when a child is diagnosed with cancer, but also that there is a safe haven to go to in order to relax, forget for awhile, and just be themselves.

Approximately 55 children ranging from age 7 to 18 enjoyed Camp Gray Dove, where even the counselors are veteran campers coming back to continue the legacy and their friendships. Activities ranged from a challenge course, water-skiing, banana boating, arts and crafts, and even more. There was also an exciting dance, a scavenger hunt, and water Olympics to finish off the week with a bang.

Camp Champions was the new home for the camp, located on Lake LBJ in the scenic Marble Falls area. The new campgrounds were a huge success because of the challenge course and the lake activities. These new activities gave the campers a chance to work as a team in a supportive manner providing a sense of recognition and accomplishment amongst kids their own age.

Deborah Sharp founded Camp Gray Dove almost 15 years ago, creating a second family for the counselors and campers alike. Amber Sharp, her daughter, has been attending the camp for 13 years and has watched it grow into a place where kids and teens can channel their emotions and frustrations with others who understand what they truly go through.

The camp is also a place that inspires the young counselors to work in the field of oncology, like Lindsey Jordan from Houston. Lindsey hopes to become a doctor and continue to help kids cope with cancer. Camp Grey Dove is not just for children who have a sibling with cancer, but is also for those who have siblings in remission, or have lost siblings recently. The campers, counselors, and families understand that cancer can affect the family in many ways and for many years.

The campers themselves had their own comments about Gray Dove this year:
Nathan Manigault, age 13 from Lampasas, enjoyed his seventh year at camp this summer. He especially loved the Hula songs, camp time with friends in the cabins, and most fun of all, the banana boat. He finds Grey Dove to be a comforting place where he can spend time with close friends.
Tatiana Frago, age 8 from Round Rock, loves sharing funny stories with friends and riding on the banana boat. Her favorite part of camp was the dance! Tatiana’s supportive parents continue to send her to Grey Dove because she enjoys the unique time and friendships made.

Camp Grey Dove’s special purpose is to give the siblings of Candlelighters’ children an outlet for their frustrations, emotions and also give them a way to connect with others in understanding the many ways cancer affects a family. Next year the leaders of Grey Dove hope to improve camp by having more structure in camp time and activities. With a great new location and the eagerness to raise funds for next summer, Camp Grey Dove will prove to be a successful and therapeutic place for campers and counselors alike.