Wish Dish | Share Your Story

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After the Dish: Camp Kesem

(Written by Thomas Bestul)

A few months ago, my article, A Week of Magic, was published on the WishDish. My article narrated my first experience with Camp Kesem and how those kids greatly impacted my life.

For some backstory, Camp Kesem is a free weeklong summer camp for kids whose parents have been affected by cancer. This summer camp allows these kids to forget about their parent’s illness and just be kids again. Writing for the Wish Dish let me share my life-changing story with the rest of the world.

When a parent gets diagnosed with cancer, it affects the entire family. The children often get overlooked because they don’t have physical symptoms of what they’re going through. That is why Camp Kesem exists; to support these kids during and beyond their parent’s cancer. The WishDish gave me a platform to spread this incredible organization’s message. Since my article has been published, people have glimpsed the magic that exists within this one week of camp. Also, my article helped spread awareness of the need for Camp Kesem and its sheer existence as a resource for these families.

Over 3 million children in the United States have parents that are or have been affected by cancer, but these kids are underserved because they suffer silently. The WishDish has helped shine the light on this often overlooked population.

Camp Kesem forever changed my life for the better. I’ve met the strongest kids who have been through so much, but they still manage to put a smile on their face. I’ve met fellow student leaders who are the most selfless, passionate, and caring people around. I’ve experienced the magic of Camp Kesem that impacts the lives of anyone who touches it.

The WishDish gave me the opportunity to share my story and experience with Camp Kesem, and I hope it inspires people to find out what the magic of Camp Kesem is all about.

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After the Dish: Camp Kesem

(Written by Thomas Bestul)

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