Children born with heart defects attend their first overnight camp

Going to an overnight camp without your parents can be exciting for kids, but children born with heart problems often don’t have that opportunity. Parents may be fearful their children will experience health emergencies while in the midst of activities. The kids themselves may be reluctant to attend a traditional camp where they are singled out for needing a little extra support.

This coming weekend, University Health’s first overnight Kids Heart Camp will give children with congenital heart conditions the chance to independently participate in activities that will give them confidence, meet children with similar health conditions and – best of all – have fun. Children, ages 9 to 18, will climb a wall, try their hand at archery, ride horses and immerse themselves in arts and crafts. They will be supported by heart specialists and counselors trained to recognize and respond to any medical concerns.

“Sometimes our congenital heart children feel different. At this camp they will meet other kids who have had similar medical experiences. It’s very reassuring for them to know they’re not alone,” said Dr. Ginnie Abarbanell, medical director at University Health’s Pediatric Heart Center and chief of pediatric cardiology at UT Health San Antonio.

Media are invited to interview and videotape or photograph the campers as they experience the excitement and camaraderie of camp life. Their medical providers can talk about why this experience is so special and important for these children.

Please let us know you are coming so we can notify security at the Morgan’s Camp check-in kiosk.