Camp Hope

Camp Hope is a weeklong camping experience for children with sickle cell disease. Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder which affects the ability of red blood cells to carry oxygen. Children with this disease tire more easily, may have recurrent severe pain and must receive continuous medical care thus restricting their ability to participate in many school and recreational activities.

Camp Hope began in 1991 with 49 campers and is held at Camp Don-Lee, located on the Neuse River near Arapahoe, NC. Our goals in providing this camping experience include: building self-confidence and independence, emotional and social development and wellbeing, and learning and sharing support with others who are living with a chronic blood disorder. The camp is staffed by physicians, nurses and other volunteers who provide necessary medical support and emotional encouragement.

Camp activities include sailing, canoeing, swimming (lessons adapted for handicapped), arts and crafts, music, campfires, nature, and specialized support and educational sessions.

For information about Camp Hope (programming, volunteer opportunities, etc.), please contact:

Jacquelyn Sauls, Director
Rainbow Services
Department of Pediatrics
Hematology/Oncology
252-744-2557
saulsj@ecu.edu

To learn more about supporting Camp Hope, contact:

ECU Medical & Health Sciences Foundation
2200 S. Charles Blvd., Suite 1500
Greenville, NC 27858
252-744-2238
Or give online