Kaylena, Aramis and Bradley first started coming to the Sibling and Offspring Camp when they were just seven years old. At this year’s camp we were lucky enough to have all three come back as camp leaders, as they are now too old (believe it or not) to come as regular siblings.
Do you remember feeling nervous about coming to your first camp?
Kaylena: I remember feeling nervous going into my first sibs camp in 2007, as I didn’t know what to expect and I didn’t know anyone there. It ended up being an amazing time and why I went back every year.
Aramis: Yeah, I do remember feeling nervous for my first camp. All the way leading up to it I was super excited about it but when it came time to actually go, I started getting nervous. I didn’t really understand what it was about the first time I went, but I really enjoyed it and kept coming back.
Bradley: I remember going into my first camp, I’m pretty sure it was in 2009! I was really nervous about meeting everyone and I remember being very shy at the time. I had a lot of fun on the camp and didn’t want to go home by the end!
You made some new friends on camp, has it been good catching up over the years?
Kaylena: It was really easy making new friends at camp and they made it so much fun. It was great to catch up with Aramis and Bradley after all this time and getting to know what they’ve been up to over the last year or so.
Aramis: I have made some good friends from camp over the years and it’s been great to come back every year and see them and catch up. It’s so good to be able to speak to people about CF and have them know what I’m talking about, without having to explain the disease and why certain things have to be done.
Bradley: Seeing everyone from past camps, leaders and siblings over the years is always cool. It’s nice to talk about and remember past camps.
What’s the best thing about camp?
Kaylena: The best part of camp is getting to experience all the different team games and making new friends that understand what you go through on a daily basis with your siblings or parents.
Aramis: My favourite thing about camp is being able to get out of the house for a few days and just having fun and not having to worry about things. And again, being able to talk to people who know what’s going on.
Bradley: There is so many awesome things about camp, but the best thing would have to be the people there. Everybody is there for a reason and everyone is understanding of each other. We all have relatives with CF, and it is cool talking about it with people who understand.
Interview from Rozee, 2020.