Hasmonean student Pini Stimler, 16, was diagnosed with leukaemia at the age of four and has been in remission for eight years.
Now an administrative volunteer at the Camp Simcha office, he recalls that his parents “were good friends with the founders of Camp Simcha. So they suggested I come along and experience what they could do. At the time there were about 10 kids, now there are hundreds.
“One of the first things I remember is going to a pottery painting place and I also remember going to a country manor retreat. It was a fun-filled day of activities and my whole family came along. My parents were having candlelit dinners while my siblings and me were go-karting and having fun. It was amazing.”
Pini says that “having cancer can make you feel quite down. Camp Simcha focuses on your mental well-being and ensures you have a good time, so you can forget about the physical aspect.
“I’ve volunteered to help with administration because I enjoy being part of such an amazing charity. It’s important to give something back, especially now that they’ve helped me.”