TOPSHAM – Children affected by cancer, ages 4 through high school, are invited to attend the American Cancer Society’s Camp Rainbow during the week of June 18 to 24.

The society, in cooperation with Eastern Maine Medical Center, the Bangor Ronald McDonald House and the Bangor YMCA Camp Jordan, has been offering the weeklong camping experience for 19 years. Due to financial contributions from society friends and donors, participants will be able to attend camp free.

Camp Rainbow provides an experience that helps children diagnosed with cancer meet other kids and families, bolster their self-esteem and confidence and participate in activities like swimming, kayaking, volleyball, arts and crafts and singing. The camp operates at Camp Jordan on Branch Lake in Ellsworth.

Children in treatment for cancer as well as those who are up to 10 years post-treatment are eligible. Children ages 4 to 6 may attend with a parent or guardian; those 7 and older may attend alone. Attendance is subject to the approval of the medical director. Maine children are given preference, but out-of-state children are also encouraged to apply.

Chemotherapy and blood tests are given onsite by the medical staff, and the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Clinic at Eastern Maine Medical Center provides 24-hour medical staffing for the week.

For more information and an application, contact the American Cancer Society at 800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.

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