Sumter native now counselor at camp for kids with cancer after attending as child

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When Sarah Grace Jarecki was just 7 years old, she began feeling sick while attending a basketball camp.

Her mother expected it was a virus and took Sarah Grace to her pediatrician. The family quickly was referred to the Children's Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Palmetto Health Children's Hospital, where tests showed that Sarah Grace had a brain tumor. She was treated with surgeries, radiation and chemotherapy and completed her treatment in August 2004. She has followed up with annual visits and today has no measurable evidence of cancer.

Beginning at age 8, the highlight of Sarah Grace's summer has been CAMP KEMO. She was homesick at first, but she quickly became caught up in the fun.

Today, the Sumter native is 22 and is excited about her role as a counselor at CAMP KEMO.

"CAMP KEMO is honestly the best experience a child with cancer could have. Children are in such good hands and having so much fun. There is so much laughter and so much to do that children can just focus on being kids and having fun," she said.

Jarecki became a counselor-in-training the summer before college.

"I have encouraged other former campers to get involved as counselors at CAMP KEMO," she said. "It is such a joy to work alongside people who are totally devoted to creating an unforgettable experience for the kids."

Sarah Grace just graduated from Clemson University and plans to become a child life specialist.

"CAMP KEMO is the best week of my summer," she said. "I have just as much fun as the kids do."

CAMP KEMO is funded by donations. One way to donate is directly through CAMP KEMO's website at www.palmettohealthchildrens.org/programs/camp-kemo-programs.

There is no cost to families to send a child to the camp, and each child can invite one sibling. Camp week provides respite for parents caring for children with cancer and gives them a chance to get away while knowing their children are in the hands of the same physicians, nurses and staff who provide their treatment throughout the year. Hundreds of volunteers contribute to the success of CAMP KEMO.