By Bethany Swain, HACA member
Our family has been fortunate to be part of the Camp Holiday Trails (CHT) community for years—beginning with a Family Camp weekend hosted by VHF and HACA, and continuing through many unforgettable summers. This year brought a new milestone: our youngest son, Evan—our “ticket” into the bleeding disorder community—attended for the first time without his big brother.
The entire experience was fantastic. We saw thoughtful improvements to some ideas we shared last year. I'm thrilled to see the re-introduction of hands-on medical training. Campers practiced using tourniquets, giving subcutaneous injections, and even infused oranges.
Evan’s cabin was made up of HACA friends—all first-time campers—with just four kids and two counselors. What an incredible ratio! In a new pick-up procedure, families were invited to join the campers for breakfast and participate in a closing CHT circle, complete with songs and chants that are a beloved (and sticky!) part of the camp experience.
Families had the flexibility to head out early or linger to meet the new friends their campers couldn’t wait to introduce. When I asked Evan what he liked most, he said “everything”… but I eventually got him to name two: the food and the songs.
From Rhys Conlon, a brand-new addition to both the HACA family and the camp community, we heard this about her son’s first experience:
“Emmett, who had never attended a sleepaway camp, had a wonderful time at CHT. When I asked him what his favorite activities were, he singled out archery and fishing at the waterfront, but over lunch today, he recounted several other highlights (comedy sketches at the talent show, a dance party, and the ‘kitchen raid’). He was engaged with new friends when we arrived for pick-up and jumped to introduce us to his counselors and a few members of the med staff. Raj and I were very impressed by the CHT community (and the gorgeous setting) and extend our heartfelt thanks for this very meaningful experience.”
And from Marcelle Williams, a longtime and active HACA member, whose son Alphie also attended for the first time:
“Alphie had an incredible first week at sleep-away camp with Camp Holiday Trails. From making new friends and trying activities like canoeing to learning how to self-infuse, he embraced every moment with enthusiasm. As a parent, it was hard sending him off for the first time—but knowing he was surrounded by knowledgeable, caring staff made all the difference. We’re so grateful for the safe, supportive environment that helped him grow in confidence and independence.”
Rhys, Marcelle and I were among several families who accepted the invitation to arrive in Charlottesville the night before for an educational dinner—a thoughtful addition that allowed us to connect, share stories, and meet as parents before reuniting with our kids the next morning.
Camp Holiday Trails continues to be more than just a place—it’s a vibrant, welcoming community where our kids grow, connect, and thrive. We’re so grateful.
Thank you to this year's camp sponsors: Bayer, CSL Behring, Drugco, Genentech, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer and Takeda. A very special thank-you as well to the donors who contributed in memory of Carey Cota, Bethany Swain's cousin who passed away this summer. The family asked that donations be made toward the summer camp program.
