My husband and I belong to the Mountainview Boat Club of Maine and we recently participated in a classic/antique boat ride activity for the children at Camp Sunshine.

Along with three other boats, we gave rides to groups of children between ages 5 and 18 afflicted with cancer and their siblings.

We were both so impressed with the support and selfless care and attention given to these precious children bravely battling their disease.

It was heartwarming to see the staff and young volunteers, mostly young adults themselves, offering a week or more of their time to bring joy and a sense of normality to the lives of these boys and girls with life-threatening illnesses.

Some of the volunteers were cancer survivors themselves, offering a special understanding of grief and turmoil.

The camp is beautifully situated on a sandy beach with walking paths through the woods, fire pits and a brick oven, mini golf and activity centers, footbridges, water fountains, medical staff and so much more, as well as isolated sitting areas for more quiet times.

It is truly a respite from reality, offering well-deserved services for entire families of afflicted children from all over the world.

The smiles generated from a simple boat ride on the pristine Lake Sebago put life in perspective for all of us who take for granted the blessings of health and happiness, and I wish the success of Camp Sunshine to continue for years to come.

Suzanne Johnson, Buckfield

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