BROD Partners with Cancer Services of Baton Rouge to Host “Camp Care,”a summer camp for Families Impacted by Cancer

Baton Rouge Ochsner Discovery Academy (BROD) has recently partnered with Cancer Services of Baton Rouge to host a summer camp for children and families impacted by cancer. The week-long camp, Camp Care, offered a unique opportunity for children with cancer and their siblings to enjoy a sense of normalcy and support on BROD’s campus. At Camp Care, children engaged in the arts, STEM-based activities, bowling, a visit to the zoo, and a trip to the Knock Knock Children’s Museum.

St. Luke’s Episcopal Church has hosted Camp Care for several years, but the church burned down in February, leaving this year’s location uncertain. In response, BROD stepped in and offered its campus as the venue.

“With making sure we’re educating kids every day, serving our school’s mission and vision, it was a quick yes to make this happen,” said Dr. Jesse Watson of BROD. “We’re glad we could be a space for the camp and be a true community hub, which is what we think schools should be.”

The camp provides children like Ethan, a cancer survivor, a chance to engage in activities with other children who share similar experiences. “Camp Care has had an amazing impact on our family,” said Amber Johnson, Ethan’s mother. “It allows Ethan to be a normal kid with other kids just like him. It includes him and all three of his brothers, which is huge because, in their eyes, Ethan has received ‘extra’ attention. Camp Care isn’t that way; it gives them all special attention!”

The partnership between BROD and Cancer Services of Baton Rouge ensures the continuation of Camp Care. It underscores both organizations’ commitment to supporting families affected by cancer. “We know this is much more than just a one-week camp,” Dr. Watson said. “We want to make sure that, if additional opportunities arise, we can support in some way.”

The camp’s team, consisting of trained volunteers and nurses, provided a safe environment, giving parents peace of mind. “Our oldest son, Benjamin, is a Type 1 Diabetic, so events and summer camps can be hard when they don’t have the trained staff. Camp Care is all-inclusive for the kids that may need extra attention, which is huge for us as parents,” said Johnson.