With People Who Understand: Starlight Family Camping at Prospect Lake

This summer, Power To Be hosted families from Starlight Children's Foundation for two overnight camping trips at our Prospect Lake home. Each spanning three days and two nights, these trips brought together families who have experienced serious childhood illnesses, to rest, connect, try new activities, and discover the freedom and joy that can come from time spent in nature. 

The first overnight, held in late June, welcomed three families, with kids ranging in age from 6-14. It was a beautiful dynamic, as the older teens did a wonderful job looking out for the younger kids (who had a ton of energy!).

As their children played together in the forest, ran through the field, and laughed through games like Camouflage and Nightline, parents had a chance to connect with each another. Many spoke openly about the journeys that brought them there. 

Some of the children had once been Make-A-Wish recipients, facing uncertain futures during cancer treatments or other life-threatening illnesses. Around campfires each night, parents reflected on those difficult years, and spoke about how isolating it can be when you’re in the thick of it. They spoke about the experience of living in a bubble of hospitals, sickness, and care, and how lonely it can feel, trying to stay strong.

For many parents, one of the most meaningful parts of the experience was simply being surrounded by people who understood. 

As the sun set over Turtle Bay one night, families gathered around a beach campfire near the big willow tree for S'mores and conversation. There was no pressure, no appointments to rush to, and no equipment to organize. Meals were prepared, tents were ready, and gear was provided.

Parents repeatedly expressed gratitude for the chance to simply arrive, enjoy time with their families, and connect with others in such a beautiful setting. They talked about the trip being a welcome break from planning and worrying, where they could just show up exactly as they were.  

A second overnight in late July brought four more families together, including several who were still actively navigating the realities of chronic illness and upcoming medical procedures. 

For three of the four families, it was their first ever camping experience. Camping can feel out of reach for many families, especially when health concerns, accessibility needs, financial barriers, or uncertainty about the outdoors are involved. By providing all necessary gear, meals, support, and adaptive options, Power To Be was able to help create an environment where participants could focus on the experience rather than the logistics, and distance themselves from daily stresses and routines. 

Throughout the weekend, families embraced new adventures. Some tried paddle boarding for the first time. Others had their first experiences with fishing, setting up camp, and sleeping in tents. For a few, it was their first time being in nature for longer than an afternoon.

One parent described being nervous, at first, about paddle boarding with their two-year-old child for the very first time. Once they were out on the water, however, the experience was truly amazing. They shared that they would never have been able to have that experience on their own, and that they were grateful for the access to gear and support. 

Another participant who expressed some initial fear around camping reflected on how important it was to know that knowledgeable staff were nearby, which offered peace of mind. 

While the outdoor activities were enjoyed by all, one of the things that left a lasting impression was the connections created between families. Participants arrived as strangers but quickly bonded over shared experiences, and became sources of support for one another. 

One newcomer family made chai for the entire group, sharing both a warm drink and a comforting part of their culture and tradition. Families exchanged stories, discussed community resources, and offered insights from their own experiences navigating long-term illness and caregiving. 

Even in a state of rest and relaxation, families continued finding ways to support each other. One family realized another participant didn't bring the right-sized materials for a tie-dye activity, and arranged to have additional supplies delivered so that everyone could participate. 

As one staff member reflected, "As much as these families appreciated the chance to relax and be taken care of, they still prioritized opportunities to be generous. And that was a beautiful thing to witness" 

On this trip, we heard reflections from a longtime Power To Be participant who has spent years navigating barriers related to health and accessibility. 

"Power To Be has been a big part of my life for 20 years," they shared. "This was the first time I've been able to camp and leave my old self behind." 

They spoke about the many nights spent in hospitals, the anxiety that often accompanies medical uncertainty, and the sense of freedom they felt watching their child explore confidently on a paddle board. 

"For the first time, I didn't feel the fear or anxiety," they said. "It's hard to describe. Power To Be helps me share old passions with new people and come full circle in my journey." 

These trips were also particularly meaningful as most of the participating families were based in Vancouver, and were able to travel from the big city and the Lower Mainland to join us at Prospect Lake. 

Experiences like these would not be possible without the generous support of our community, and we are especially grateful to the Diamond Foundation. Their support helped create space for families to rest, reconnect, try new things, and build meaningful relationships in nature. 

Across both of these camping experiences, a deep sense of belonging was felt. Children had opportunities to simply be kids. Parents found people who understood experiences that can often feel invisible to others. Families stepped away from difficult routines and into moments of adventure, laughter, and connection. 

Whether gathered around a campfire, watching a sunset over the lake, sharing chai, or trying paddle boarding for the first time, participants experienced something that can be difficult to find after years of illness and caregiving: community. 

And sometimes, that kind of connection can be just as life-changing as the adventure itself.