Summer camp helps children cope

A new Alberta summer camp designed for children who have parents with cancer is the first of its kind in Canada.

SunHaven is a five-day summer camp programrun by Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta.

The camp is designed to help children between the ages ofseven and 15 handle the stress and questions associated with a parent fighting cancer.

Linda Weidmann, who is battling breast cancer, said herillness has forced her two small children to grow up suddenly in orderdeal with the stress of being her caregiver.

"They should grow old and learn as they go. Not learn all in one day, one fell swoop," she said.

Children often feel left out when a parent is forced to deal with cancer,according tothe foundation.

The camp'smission is togive children a week-long break from heavy responsibilities and let kids be kids.

SunHaven offers programs throughout the week aimed at helping children build self-confidence and develop new friendships with others dealing with a sick parent.

The camp is located at the foundation's Camp Kindle, which is about 80 kilometres northwest of Calgary.