From July 15 to July 19, 40 young burn survivors came together on Palomar Mountain for Camp Beyond the Scars. Camp is the Burn Institute’s hallmark burn survivor support program, specifically designed for burn-injured children ages 8-17, that provides a supportive and safe environment where kids can feel comfortable in their own skin. This year, we had a handful of new campers join us and many campers come back for their 3, 4, and even 8th year in a row! Ten of our volunteer counselors were off-duty firefighters, while many others were adult survivors or those involved in the burn community who uniquely understand what it means to live with a burn injury.

Camp was held at a new location where campers and counselor connected with the theme of “The Great Outdoors”. There was fishing in Doane Pond, night hikes in the beautiful surrounding areas, stargazing, and a whole lot of bugs! Other activities included team-building, life-skills and the popular Ukulele lessons with Michael, an adult survivor. The group also visited the Palomar Observatory and learned all about the research that is conducted there. In addition to all of the fun summer camp activities, campers learned coping techniques and “Learn Your Burn” – a tool to help survivors feel comfortable and confident in sharing their story.

During our time at camp memories were made, life-long friendships were formed and support and encouragement was provided to those facing challenges. It was truly a time for campers and counselors alike to feel part of a larger community who understands them.

The Burn Institute provides Camp Beyond the Scars completely free of charge through private donations and support. Thank you to our 2019 Camp supporters: 

Avita Medical ∙ Bonsall Woman’s Club ∙ Cubic Corporation ∙ David C. Copley Foundation ∙ Ellen G. & Edward G. Wong Family Foundation ∙ Falck ∙ Firefighters of Southern Nevada Burn Foundation ∙  GoPro ∙ Grossmont Healthcare District ∙ Helen Woodward Animal Center – Pet Encounter Therapy ∙ Kiwanis Club of Poway ∙ Las Primeras ∙ Legacy Quilters Guild ∙ Little Helpers Popcorn Co. ∙ Mariposa Ice Cream ∙ MFM Enterprises ∙ Molnlycke ∙ Pratt Memorial Fund ∙ Rotary Club of La Mesa ∙ Schmidt Fire Protection ∙ Sweetwater Woman’s Club ∙ The Country Friends ∙ The Melvin Garb Foundation ∙ Variety the Children’s Charity of Southern California ∙ Vericel Corporation ∙ Walden W. & Jean Young Shaw Foundation ∙ Walter J. and Betty C. Zable Foundation