Family Flats: Robin’s Story
8/1/2024 by Beth Starkin
Camper mom, Robin, has always known about The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, having lived nearby her entire life. However, she never expected to be involved until her son, Holden, was diagnosed with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia at just seven years old. It was a life-changing moment, and one that brought the entire family into the Camp community. Initially introduced more formally to Hole in the Wall through the Hospital Outreach Program while Holden was in treatment, the family immediately sought ways to get involved.
“Once you’re blindsided by a critical illness, you learn that you quickly find a tribe of strangers that ‘get it,’ and it helps to embrace your village that forms,” Robin shared. “Camp provided an entire network of support and ways to still enjoy and participate in special things, even when Holden wasn’t stable enough to participate in anything anywhere else.”
Holden first came to a summer session in 2023, and since then, the family has been to a Family Camp, Family Weekends and multiple CampOut events. And Robin and her husband, Jason, have also been to a Parent and Caregiver Retreat weekend and multiple parent volunteer days. Even Robin’s father, Stephen, has gotten involved, volunteering his time to support Camp activities.
“There are and continue to be memories that stand out every time we participate,” Robin said. “Every memory is a reminder of how Camp just seems to collect he best humans in existence across the board. Every PERSON that participates is special, involved, supported and embraced. If Penny, our daughter, attends, it’s a program that focuses just as much on her as on Holden. We have all bonded so deeply with our people.”
Through Camp, the family has been able to find support, both individually and as a unit. It has provided opportunities for respite and something to look forward to when times feel bleak. But most of all, Hole in the Wall has reminded the family of the power of “a different kind of healing” and of all of the good that is in the world.
“Camp is all the things you didn’t even know you needed when life sometimes looks it’s darkest,” Robin said. “Camp is the entity in your life that knows what you need before you do. It’s catching your breath, reducing the worry and increasing the support. It’s love, fun and encouragement. It reclaims humanity and separates the illness as the umbrella that overshadows your life. Camp reminds you that magic still exists.”
Learn more about how Hole in the Wall programs support the entire family by exploring our programs!
