Camp Quality Archives: Emma’s journey from childhood cancer to giving back

“Camp Quality was a place where I could forget about having cancer, even if just for a few days. It made me feel not alone because I met other kids who had gone through or were going through similar situations. It was a distraction during some of my toughest times,” says Emma, one of our alumni Camp Quality campers.

In 1990, when Emma was only four years old, doctors found a tumour in her brain the size of a golf ball.

“I was taken to Prince of Wales Children’s Hospital, where I underwent surgery performed by Professor Jones and Dr Charlie Teo. As a result, I became half-blind in both eyes and have permanent disabilities on the right side of my body.”

Emma’s family registered with Camp Quality in 1991, hoping to give her some normality and fun experiences.

“As a young 5-year-old girl, I experienced many moments of excitement at summer and winter camps; abseiling, doing arts and crafts, cooking, and so much more.”

A few years later, Emma faced the heartbreaking reality of a relapse. She endured another two surgeries before reaching remission.

“Despite having a relapse, I continued to attend camps. For a few years, I was lucky enough to have my older sister as my companion, which made my experience even more memorable. Today, I still connect with other campers who have been part of Camp Quality.”

Emma is now 39, married and has three wonderful children. She has MRIs every three years but is still in remission and doing well.

“As an adult, I wanted to give back. I’ve volunteered with Camp Quality, doing ‘Pizza on the Ward’ at Sydney Children’s Hospital on the Neuro Ward, volunteering at a Convoy, and I’ve been a companion.