Meet Antonio
Stage four anaplastic large cell lymphoma – that’s a string of words that no 5 year old should have to rattle off.
How a young camper blossomed because of camp friendships
At age five, Antonio was diagnosed with stage four anaplastic large cell lymphoma. Treatments were hard on his body and his mental health. Because of his physical limitations, he was no longer able to keep up with his peers at school. All of this created a lot of anxiety for Antonio.
Then he found Camp One Step. Antonio began attending camp at age 10. At camp, Antonio can let his anxieties go and enjoy himself. Nobody can relate to him better than his friends at camp.
Now 14 years old, Antonio has blossomed socially and physically with the help of the amazing staff and counselors at Camp One Step. Antonio knows he is always welcomed with open arms and unerring acceptance when he joins his friends at camp. This gives him the confidence to try new things and push his boundaries.
“If someone wanted to donate I would tell them that they would not be donating to a camp, you will donate to friendship.”
More Stories From Camp Heros
Meet Sara Beth
Camp gave her back control. Now she returns year after year as a councilor to pour love into the next generation of campers.
Meet Maggie
Diagnosed at four, she might not remember life before cancer, but she’ll never forget the love and hope camp gave her.
Meet Ava and Luca
Camp provides a place where being different means fitting in – even in the face of uncertainty.
