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Camp Ray-Ray was such a blessing for my daughter and me.
Four years ago, my daughter was diagnosed with HIV. Since then, she’s endured some extremely turbulent and traumatic experiences. But this past year, she has come such a long way.
Someone at Children’s Hospital told us about Camp Ray-Ray, and when my daughter decided we should attend, I was thrilled. I had hoped she might meet others living with HIV—people she could connect with, who would understand, listen, and offer guidance. Camp Ray-Ray provided all that and more.
Everyone was so friendly and accepting that we immediately felt at ease. I attended the parents’ support session, which was deeply healing. To finally talk with other parents and adults living with HIV after four years was amazing.
The greatest blessing came when some extraordinary women reached out to my daughter after hearing our story. They offered her love, support, encouragement, and shared their own journeys. Their kindness helped her finally turn a corner—accepting and making peace with her diagnosis. It showed her a new outlook on life, full of hope and possibility.
Without the camp being fully funded, we could never have attended. Camp Ray-Ray is invaluable, especially for new families. It provides a safe space that focuses on the good things in life—fun activities, new memories, and lasting friendships.
We’ll forever be grateful for finding and attending this camp. For the first time in four years, my daughter was truly at peace with herself—and that’s all I ever wanted for her. We plan to attend every year until she ages out, and then return as volunteers.
Camp Ray-Ray showed my daughter that others living with HIV are living long, healthy, and happy lives.
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