Summer is a season of joy, a time for children to bask in the freedom of long days filled with play, laughter, and adventure. For children with significant respiratory needs, summer camps tailored to their unique requirements offer more than just fun—they provide a haven where they can thrive.

That’s why Respire Homecare Services is delighted to be part of creating an environment where these children can flourish. Our involvement goes beyond providing equipment; it’s about being there, in the water for swim time, at the table for arts and crafts, and right alongside the kids in every activity, big or small.

Now, let’s step into the world of these special summer camps and discover the joy and growth they bring to their campers:

Fresh Air Camp, Ohio: A Haven of Possibilities

Fresh Air Camp in Ohio is not just a camp; it’s a transformative experience for children with tracheostomies or respiratory technology needs. Here, swimming isn’t just an activity—it’s a triumph over limitations. Arts and crafts become a canvas for self-expression, and the talent show is a spectacle of the indomitable spirit of its campers.

Respire Homecare Services is happy to contribute to this magic by donating essential equipment and supplies that helps include every child in the fun and learning that camp has to offer.

Camp Details:
  • 6-day overnight camp for children with tracheostomies or respiratory technology needs
  • To be an overnight Fresh Air Camper, you need to:
    • Be between the ages of 5 and 18
    • Have a tracheostomy or respiratory technology need
    • And physician clearance
  • Team of medical and non-medical buddies ensure campers have a safe and memorable week
  • Pediatric physician and pediatric nurse practitioner are also on-site 24h/day
  • Activities offered: Arts and crafts, swimming, horseback riding, games, squirt gun fights, camp songs, campfires, nature hikes, fishing, dancing, talent show, awards, pranks, and many more
Fresh Air Camp is a grant and donation funded program, so there is no cost for a child to attend! For more information about this amazing program, contact info@freshaircamp.org or visit their website: Fresh Air Camp. Watch this short video about the camp:
 

CHAMPS Camp, Indiana: Champions of Independence

In Indiana, CHAMPS Camp stands as a beacon of independence for children and adolescents with tracheostomies and those requiring ventilator assistance. Activities like canoeing, climbing, and zip-lining are not just fun—they’re milestones of confidence and self-esteem.

Respire Homecare Services is glad to contribute to these empowering experiences with donations of medical equipment and supplies for respiratory needs.

Camp Details:
  • Week-long summer camp specifically designed for children with tracheostomies and those requiring respiratory assistance, including the use of ventilators
  • To join the fun at CHAMPS Camp, children must:
    • Be between the ages of 6 and 18
    • Require a tracheostomy or respiratory support
    • Have clearance from their physician
  • Camp counselors are comprised of many different people including healthcare professionals, who are camp friends and mentors. 2.5 counselors are staffed for every camper to guarantee a good mix of caring and sharing
  • 75% of counselors are nurses, respiratory therapists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, child life specialists, teachers, recreation professionals and physicians
  • Activities offered: Creative arts, swimming, climbing, archery, canoeing, fishing, pontooning, and more
CHAMPS Camp is a beacon of hope and joy for children with significant respiratory needs, providing them with a summer experience filled with laughter, friendship, and unforgettable memories. For more information or to support this wonderful cause, email them at admin@champcamp.org or visit their website: CHAMPS Camp.

Trail’s Edge Vent Camp, Michigan: Adventure Awaits

Trail’s Edge Vent Camp in Michigan offers a weeklong overnight adventure for ventilator-dependent children. The camp has been in operation for over 30 years and can accept up to 32 campers! With activities ranging from horseback riding to fishing, and even a high-flying treehouse experience, the camp embodies the essence of summer joy.

Respire Homecare Services’ support extends to this camp as well, providing essential medical equipment, including two ventilators (EVO and Trilogy 100), two pulse oximeters, and eight suction machines to ensure that every child can safely enjoy the wonders of camp life.

Camp Details:
  • Weeklong overnight camp for ventilator-dependent children
  • To be part of Trail’s Edge Vent Camp, children must:
    • Be between ages 5 and 18
    • Must be ventilator-dependent for at least part of the day or night
    • Must be able to interact and communicate with other children using speech or sign language
  • Each camper is paired with one or two partners, ensuring personalized care
  • Team of respiratory therapists and nurses provide 24/7 care and monitoring
  • Activities offered: All the traditional camp activities including campfires, archery, horseback riding, fishing, pontoon rides, adaptive kayaking, dance night, 25-foot high treehouse, lake swimming, talent show and much more
Trail’s Edge Camp is more than just a summer retreat—it’s a place where magic happens. It’s a week that gives parents a much-needed respite and children a chance to experience life to the fullest. Funded through donations and staffed by volunteers, the camp ensures that there is no cost to the families.
To learn more about Trail’s Edge Camp, contact them via email at director.trailsedgecamp@gmail.com or visit their website here: Trail's Edge Camp - Home (trailsedgecamp.org).

A Commitment to Care and Community

At Respire Homecare Services, we consider it a privilege to support the summer camps that bring so much happiness and adventure to children with complex respiratory needs. Our role extends far beyond sponsorship; it’s about being part of a community that uplifts and empowers. We’re honored to contribute medical equipment that helps create a safe and joyful summer experience for these incredible children. It’s truly heartwarming to see them enjoy the same spirited activities that define childhood for all.