Family Flats: Carl and Aurora

Carl and Aurora first came to Camp earlier this year for a Family Weekend with their son, Elijah. And though they are new to the Camp community, Hole in the Wall has already had a big impact on the family. 

“We heard about the Family Weekend through the Hospital Outreach Program,” Aurora shared. “Elijah loved it. This is the only place he catches fish. Elijah caught 13 fish when we came here in May.” 

Soon after, Carl and Aurora came to a Parent & Caregiver Retreat Weekend at the Heritage Hotel in Southbury, Conn. It was an opportunity for them to connect with each other as well as other caregivers in a relaxed and fun environment, without children. 

“The Parent & Caregiver Retreat was our first night alone together since Elijah was diagnosed,” Aurora said. “We had a great time.” 

There were plenty of opportunities to let their hair down, with time to use the hotel pool, create in arts & crafts and woodshop, and even a fun silent disco, but the heart of the weekend were the sessions just for moms and ones just for dads, where everyone could connect about their shared experiences. 

“When we first walked in, a lot of the men didn’t want to talk – I was one of them,” Carl shared. “You don’t have friends who you can really talk to. I walked out of there so grateful that we did come. It was so sobering and humbling to hear some of their stories.” 

And several of the families who attended the Parent & Caregiver retreat just reconnected at a Fall Family Weekend at Camp. It was an opportunity to rekindle their bonds and build their community of support. 

“We try to stay connected with the families we met here,” Aurora said. It’s been so helpful to share resources and learn from every parent. I wish more parents would take a chance and be open to the retreat.” 

Discover more about how Hole in the Wall programming supports parents and caregivers here.