Camp Great Rock
A Fun, Safe Environment for Children & Teens with Epilepsy
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For Ages: 7-17
Dates: July 8-14, 2023
Camp Cost: $1200.00
**Need-based scholarships are available and payment plans can be arranged.Medical Team: Brainy Camps’ Medical Liaison, Alyssa Weinstein, NP, works in conjunction with Dr. John Schreiber, Dr. Dewi Depositario-Cabacar, and Dr. Archana Pasupuleti child neurologists at Children’s National; PA Kelli Morrisey; APRNs Mara Zaiderman and Lauren Dome; and Children’s National Neurology Fellows
Camp Great Rock is a week-long, overnight camp for children and teens with epilepsy, ages 7-17. For 25 years, it has provided campers with epilepsy a safe environment where they can have fun while building confidence, independence, and self-esteem.
Epilepsy is a common and unpredictable condition that often leads to feelings of social stigma and isolation. Camp Great Rock was developed to reduce the stigma and isolation while allowing children with epilepsy to meet others with the same condition and enjoy an overnight camp experience.
Camp Great Rock is more than a summer camp—it is specially designed to help kids with epilepsy develop friendships, gain an understanding of their condition, and realize their potential and self-worth. At Camp Great Rock, one staff member is assigned to every two campers.
The Neurology Department of Children’s National provides the medical management of Camp Great Rock. Drs. John Schreiber, Dewi Depositario-Cabacar, and Dr. Archana Pasupuleti child neurologists at Children’s National, head the medical team and provide 24/7 physician coverage of camp. Additional medical staff, including nurses, social workers, physical therapists, and psychologists, are on-site throughout the days of camp. Counselors are trained in seizure recognition, first aid, CPR, and the special needs of children with epilepsy. Many counselors and volunteers live with epilepsy and share their experiences with the campers.
Throughout the week, campers participate in a myriad of activities. The kids learn team-building skills through activities such as sports, skits, and camp Olympics. Group counseling sessions allow the children to discuss their feelings and learn how others cope with their epilepsy. For one week, the children do not have to worry about explaining their seizures to their peers; they simply have fun. The friendships made at camp often continue throughout the year and for many to come.
Please contact Brainy Camps at brainycamps@childrensnational.org for more information.
Camp Great Rock 2021 received support from the following:
Donation made during the 2019 Race for Every Child and private donations.
