Local kids impacted by cancer embark on unforgettable journey through Camp Good Days

Rochester, N.Y. — Some local kids impacted by cancer are getting ready for the trip of a lifetime, all thanks to Camp Good Days' annual "Florida Fun Fest," where there are no parents allowed!

You could sense the anticipation in the faces of those involved at the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport Thursday morning. For some, it's their first time away from home.

"Mostly, (I'm excited to) just be myself without my parents or anything," said 10-year-old Kya Bach.

"All these children have been diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives," explained Alicia Sommer, family and programs director with Camp Good Days. "It's time for them to go to Disney, to Universal, without parents, and just have a good time."

A six-day trip — the first post-COVID — includes 19 Camp Good Day campers, all with a common bond.

MORE: Camp Good Days holds holiday party giving back to those involved | Annual 'Tour de Teddi Bike Ride' raises record-breaking $110,000 for Camp Good Days

"It's really fun to have people that are like you that have cancer," Kya said. "It's kind of cool to meet kids who are just like me."

And why is that important?

"Because sometimes you feel lonely when you have cancer, so you don't know anybody else that has cancer," Kya said. "They know what you're going through."

"It really is to spend time with other kids who have gone through all the appointments and the treatments and they understand the impact to your normal life," added Kya's mom, Jenny. "You can't compare that, and it's nice to know you're not alone. There are others who go through this, and they can compare your stories, talk about all the nurses that make them laugh, the different things they do — it's incredible."

Incredible people, on an incredible journey. And what is mom's advice?

"That you should have a good time," Kya said.

That good time is made possible — in part — with funds raised by St. John Fisher's annual Teddi Dance for Love.

MORE: Teddi Dance for Love raises $130,000 for Camp Good Days

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