For what has become an annual ritual for firefighters and health professionals from around the Northeast the Children’s Burn Camp was once again open for business from July 12^th to July 20^th.

Amid soaring gas prices, a shaky economy, an uncertain employment future and a myriad of fire service issues and concerns, 80 plus counselors gather to spend a week with young burn survivors.  Predominantly comprised of firefighters, nurses, therapists and burn survivors these counselors leave the world and any personal challenges at the front gate as they enter a surreal world of courage and determination.

Inside a wooded 180 acre converted Boy Scout camp of scattered buildings in various stages of disrepair, stands the Children’s Burn Camp in Union, Connecticut located at the southern border of Massachusetts.

 Aesthetically there is nothing at all impressive about the Camp.  Most of the buildings are in need of some structural repair and the grounds could use a fair amount of landscaping.  Thanks to many of the firefighters from around the Northeast, all buildings are functional and safe and trails and walk ways are ready for use.  There is a beautiful lake in the center of the Camp. It is not until the children arrive on Sunday morning, however, that the real beauty and charm of this special place takes shape.

The arrival of Campers on Sunday morning signals the beginning of a magical week.  71 young children, adolescents and young adults who refuse to be defined by tragedy, scars or physical handicaps amaze and inspire the counselors and staff at every turn.

Every year the week of Burn Camp seems to be more remarkable and more inspirational than the last.  So much so that counselors wonder whether they are here for the kids or the kids are here for them.  Whether you are privileged to witness Oleksey (Alex) from the Ukraine climb the 40’ ropes course with only one arm after three failed attempts, refusing to accept anything but success, or watch Jimmy “coffee” from Nicaragua fall just short in the Archery tournament, by the way Jimmy “coffee” is without most of his fingers, you are awestruck almost minute by minute.  Their wardrobe (a big pink floppy hat), their attitude (Go Red Sox), their eyes (bright and vibrant as diamonds), their sense of humor, their determination and their smiles infect and change you.  Are these Campers or professors of life?  Children or wise men and women?  Physically challenged or conquerors of any challenge.

The Children of the Burn Camp that I and so many have been blessed to know bestow upon you a unique perspective and an order of priorities you cannot get anywhere else.  It is our challenge, the counselors and staff, to remember every day that most of us have no real problems and no challenges too great that we cannot overcome.

The New Jersey firefighter contingent usually consisting of 5 was increased to 6 with the addition of Cranford Firefighter Andy Straton, who worked non-stop in the kitchen.  Andy received the “hook, line and sinker” award this year signifying that he too has been changed forever and will no doubt be returning each year.

I don’t pretend to understand why such horrific things happen to such wonderful children but I am beginning to suspect that their challenges and the grace with which they overcome them are meant not for them but as gifts, symbols and reminders to those lucky enough to be able to spend time with them.  Campers who respond like champions, children who teach adults how to endure and excel and overcome any and every challenge and contest that stands in their way arrive each year at camp to enlighten and inspire us. 

Thank you to all those who contribute to the NJFMBA Foundation all year.  Your contributions allow us to provide a week of fun and adventure for these children.  But thanks most of all to the Children who have survived burns and neglect and abuse and many other tragic realities only to smile through it all.  These young survivors epitomize courage and resilience and an enthusiasm for life that raises the human spirit beyond words.  Our challenge is to remember their triumph and have their perspective sustained in our everyday life.

Until we have the unique honor to be in their august company again we pray their lives will be as enriched as the lives they have touched with their dignity, courage and ability to teach even the most distressed among us. 

Enjoy the summer, stay safe and cherish every healthy moment.