Camp Haven brings together area kids coping with loss

By Kirsten Stokes

Camp Haven welcomed children who have experienced the loss of a loved one, offering a retreat of fun summer activities and bonding this week.

Two months ago, an empty campground was the foundation of Camp Haven. Now, while it looks like a typical summer camp at first glance, everyone shares a common bond. Campers, ages 8-14, are all experiencing different stages of grief and have their own reasons for attending.

Camper Brenley lost her stepdad and remembered the moments that they shared.

“We used to ride horses a lot together and I loved it,” Brenley said.

From arriving Sunday to the end of camp this Friday, they will participate in various activities that allow them to be kids but also feel at ease enough to express their emotions and be comfortable to ask for help.

“Our goal is to be there for them in that process, too. This is where we get introduced to them,” said Tony Martinez, camp leader. “They know that they have a bond with other people who have come here, and then after that, we know we can lean on each other whenever we need to.”

Martinez lost his son, Darin, in 2017 to throat cancer, so his personal experience is valuable to help kids where they need it.

Campers Morgan, JJ, Brenley and Bella were interviewed to talk about dealing with grief outside of camp.

“I wouldn’t say we learned how to understand how to control the loss, but try to talk about it,” Bella said.

Takeaways, friendship and communication are the most important things to have in this healing journey.

“Don’t be scared to talk about it, because that’s just going to make it worse and that’s all going to just explode. Take it one step at a time,” JJ said.

Whether you’re young or old, processing grief can teach you several lessons.

“Everything’s tough before it is easy,” Morgan said.

To donate to Camp Haven or become a volunteer next year, visit the Camp Haven Facebook page.