As we celebrate the 35th anniversary of Shannon’s Hope Camp, we reflect on the profound impact it has had on the lives of countless children and families. One story that stands out is that of Malia, who first attended camp as a grieving child and later returned as a volunteer. Her journey from camper to buddy beautifully embodies the camp’s mission of support, healing, and connection.
Finding Hope After Loss
Malia lost her father when she was just seven years old. His passing, after a long battle with liver failure, was incredibly difficult to process at such a young age. “My dad was an amazing person and a friend to all. He enjoyed life to the fullest and loved going on adventures. He was such a light to everyone, which made it so hard when he passed away,” she shared. Like many grieving children, she struggled to find ways to cope. Traditional counseling didn’t resonate, leaving her feeling isolated. It wasn’t until she discovered camps for children who had lost a loved one that she began to find hope.
Shannon’s Hope: A Lifeline
Shannon’s Hope helped her navigate the complex emotions of grief, equipping her with tools to cope as she grew older. The camp became a crucial part of her healing journey and a place she would return to year after year.
Giving Back as a Volunteer
Inspired by the support she received, Malia decided to become a volunteer to give back to the very community that had helped her so much. As a buddy,
she found a way to offer the same comfort and friendship that she had experienced. “I feel like I’ve made a difference because I can relate to the campers. I was once in their shoes. I make sure that my buddies know I’m here for them, that I already love them from the moment we meet, and that I’ll always be a friend, even after camp ends.”
Her dedication to supporting the campers, especially returning to check in with her previous buddies, speaks to the deep connections forged at Shannon’s Hope. She provides them with not just a camp buddy, but a lasting support system.
Looking Ahead
Since her time as a camper, Malia has grown into a compassionate leader. Now a freshman at the University of South Carolina, majoring in Public Health, she continues to pursue her passion for helping others. Her experiences at Shannon’s Hope and in high school—where she participated in the Unified program through Special Olympics—have shaped her career path and commitment to service. “I can’t be more grateful for Shannon’s Hope. It helped build who I am today and solidified my love for working with others. The camp will always be a part of me.”
This heartwarming story is a testament to the enduring legacy of Shannon’s Hope Camp and the powerful impact it continues to have on the lives of grieving children. As we celebrate 35 years, we are honored to recognize Malia and countless others who have found hope and healing through this incredible community.