Every year, the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) hosts International Burn Camp in Washington, DC for a week of community building between campers and camp staff of burn camps across the globe.  This experience “helps young burn survivors realize they are not alone and that there is a large support system of friends and fire fighters available to support them” (“International Burn Camp provides teen burn survivors with a week of fun and fellowship”).  This year’s International Burn Camp took place in September 2022 after being on hold for two years due to the pandemic.  Midwest Children’s Burn Camp (MCBC) sent stallion camper Julz and stallion counselor Big Shawn to represent MCBC.  The Stallion Counselors and camp leadership felt that these two were shining examples of the spirit of perseverance and integrity of MCBC.

When asked about her favorite part of International Burn Camp, Julz replied “meeting new people and seeing all the monuments”.  Big Shawn said his favorite part was the camper he traveled with, Julz.  Big Shawn says “day in and day out she proved that she was everything MCBC embodies and more.  She very quickly made friends with campers from all different backgrounds, along with their respective counselors.”  Big Shawn goes on to describe how Julz brought the same tenacity and bravery to activities at International Burn Camp as she does to MCBC: “Julz scaled the way to the top of a telephone pole to take on the Giant Sky Swing.  I was very proud and will never miss an opportunity to be over the top, rambunctious, and generally embarrassing”.  Those who know Big Shawn well can imagine what that looked like.

We are very proud to be able to send our best to represent MCBC at events like these and we look forward to participating again in the future!