WHAT: Miami Children’s Hospital and the United Order True Sisters (UOTS) will hold a family fun day for children with cancer and their families in celebration of their 16th Annual Camp - a one-week summer camp for children with cancer and blood disorders. The 16-year celebration will bring together current and former volunteers, patients and their families. 

Chronic illness impacts a person’s entire lifestyle, but it can be especially difficult for children. The weeklong sleep-away camp will provide recreational activities and support for children ages 7 to 17 who are either undergoing or have completed chemotherapy. The camp provides children a means of interacting with other kids with similar experiences, offering them fun and educational activities. It also teaches children about themselves and how to cope with the challenges they face as a result of their condition. 

WHERE:AD Barnes Park, 3401 SW 72nd Ave, Miami 

WHEN:16th year camp kickoff carnival: Sunday, July 9 – 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm 
,br> Members of the press are welcome. Please call press contact below for arrangements and interviews. 

VISUAL OPPORTUNITIES: This year’s camp will offer youngsters an array of new and exciting activities. These include a one day trip to the Florida Keys to swim with the dolphins, a visit to Universal Studios in Orlando, as well as arts and crafts and outdoor games. 

INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITY: Athena Pefkarou, MD, Miami Children’s Hospital Oncologist and co-chairman of the United Order True Sisters Camp. Campers will also be available for interviews upon request. 

BACKGROUND: For 16 years the UOTS has sponsored this week-long camp for children with cancer. The camp is volunteer run, free of charge, and open to all MCH patients. The UOTS is an organization that has supported the Cancer Center and its patients for over 45 years. 

Miami Children's Hospital’s Cancer Center was founded in 1958 to provide comprehensive care for children with acute and chronic blood disorders, cancer, and leukemia. 

Founded in 1950, Miami Children's Hospital is the only licensed specialty hospital for children in South Florida. Ranked Miami–Dade County’s “Best Pediatric Hospital” by South Florida Parenting Magazine, Miami Children's Hospital offers medical care and services for children from birth to age 21. The 268-bed medical facility has expertise in all aspects of pediatric medicine.