On July 10, burn survivors ages 8-17 learned about firefighting and gained support from each other as part of a special visit to Chula Vista Fire Station 4 by the Burn Institute’s Camp Beyond the Stars. The event included discussions with burn survivor firefighters, a firefighter obstacle course, and fire engine and station tours as a part of the healing process for many burn survivor campers who first met firefighters on one of the most difficult days in their lives.
This year’s camp was based at a campground in Chula Vista. In addition to typical summer camp activities, the camp offers a supportive space where campers learn coping skills, build relationships, and begin a lifelong conversation about how burn injuries have impacted their lives. The camp was led by adult burn survivors, healthcare and mental health professionals, and off-duty firefighters.
Camp Beyond the Scars is a weeklong sleepaway summer camp offered by the Burn Institute to children who have experienced a burn injury. The camp is free of charge for burn survivors treated at the UC San Diego Regional Burn Center, or who live in San Diego or Imperial Counties.
