Cancer Pathways: Hope, Creativity, and Connection

Camp Sparkle and Sparkle Saturdays bring support and community to Spokane families

By Taylor Shillam

For children and teens affected by cancer, finding support and genuine connection is an essential component of their care. In Spokane, Cancer Pathways is making that possible through its year-round creative arts therapy programs, including Camp Sparkle and Sparkle Saturdays.

Founded in 1996, Cancer Pathways has remained committed to its mission of “facing cancer together,” providing free programs and support groups designed to empower and educate families touched by cancer. While the nonprofit is based in Seattle, its Spokane programs offer local families opportunities to connect, learn, and heal through creativity and community.

Camp Sparkle: A Summer of Healing and Friendship

Camp Sparkle is Cancer Pathways’ free summer day camp for children and teens ages 5-17 who have been impacted by cancer. According to the organization, Camp Sparkle is designed for kids “who have been impacted by cancer – either from a personal diagnosis or that of a loved one.” This includes children whose parents, siblings, or friends are affected, as well as those who have experienced a loss due to cancer.

Through the duration of the camp, participants engage in therapeutic activities, learn about cancer in an age-appropriate way, go on field trips, and, perhaps most importantly, form lasting connections with peers who truly understand their experiences. Campers are divided by age: campers aged 5-12, Junior Counselors aged 13-15, and Counselors aged 16-17, ensuring everyone has access to both support and leadership opportunities. 

Camp Sparkle is offered in Spokane along with five other locations in Washington, making it accessible to families across the state.

Sparkle Saturdays: Extending the Magic Year-Round

To bring the supportive camp experience beyond the summer, Cancer Pathways hosts Sparkle Saturdays. These events allow children and teens to participate in therapeutic arts activities while parents engage in dedicated support groups, all facilitated by licensed clinical social workers. Sparkle Saturdays aim to bring the “magic of camp to families throughout the year,” giving Spokane families ongoing opportunities for creative expression, emotional support, and community connection.

These events follow the same thoughtful approach as Camp Sparkle, offering age-appropriate programming for children in Kindergarten and older. Exact Spokane dates are announced through the organization’s Camp & Family Program email list – be sure to stay connected with them on social media and at CancerPathways.org.

Building Resilience Through Community

Programs like Camp Sparkle and Sparkle Saturdays highlight the vital role of emotional support in the cancer journey. By fostering creativity, connection, and understanding, Cancer Pathways helps young patients and their families navigate challenges with hope and resilience. As the organization puts it, its programs create “a space to empower and educate our community,” giving kids and teens the tools to face cancer together, not alone.

For Spokane families looking to get involved or learn more, registration and program updates are available through Cancer Pathways’ website and email list, ensuring that local children and teens continue to have access to life-changing experiences that brighten their journey with cancer.

To learn more about Cancer Pathways’ efforts in Spokane and beyond, visit CancerPathways.org.

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