Camp Simcha’s team includes 12 nurses, three doctors, two paramedics, a respiratory and physical therapist and a pharmacist who prepares 1,200 medications a day.

Camper Emma Corbett (left) and counselor Rikki Berkowitz (right) sport matching Camp Simcha sweatshirts at lunch.

Camp Simcha’s infirmary looks more like a children’s museum than a hospital, with colorful themed murals in many of the building’s rooms.

Camp Simcha adapts traditional camp activities so children with chronic illnesses, disabilities and cancer can participate, including rock climbing, ziplining, swimming, boating, arts and crafts and sports.

A two-week session at camp, including around-the-clock medical care, costs about $15,000 per child, but families attend free of cost through funding from Chai Lifeline, a Jewish nonprofit assisting families impacted by medical crises.

Camp Simcha was founded in 1987 for Jewish children with serious illnesses, but enrollment is open to children of all backgrounds, and routinely sees campers from Christian and non-religious homes. 

After lunch, the dining hall turns into an afternoon dance party before campers head to activities.

Some campers at Camp Simcha have seizure disorders or use ventilators. Others are blind or paraplegic, using wheelchairs, walkers or canes. Over the years, camp has cared for children with more than 80 diagnoses.

A physical therapist works with a camper on heel rise exercises.

In addition to everyday activities, campers take part in color war, paintball, concerts and interactive magic shows.