Imagine missing the thrill of summer camp, the warm glow of a campfire, the serene beauty of a canoe ride, or the excitement of making new friends, because you have a skin condition that prevents you from participating in outdoor activities. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) couldn’t imagine denying kids this unforgettable opportunity either, which is why this national dermatology association founded Camp Discovery.

Since its inception in 1993, approximately 200 children with serious dermatologic conditions have participated in the AAD’s Camp Discovery each year. While summer camp often seems like an impossible dream for these children due to their medical needs, Camp Discovery gives them the opportunity to enhance their self-confidence, learn from other children who have similar dermatologic conditions, and enjoy a week’s worth of fishing, boating, swimming, water skiing, and arts and crafts. Dermatologists and nurses volunteer their services to provide medical supervision for the campers. “Camp Discovery is a perfect example of how volunteerism and a vision can enrich so many lives,” said dermatologist Raymond L. Cornelison, Jr., MD, President of the American Academy of Dermatology. “These children are so grateful for the opportunity to spend time at camp and meet other kids with similar life experiences. It gives them confidence at a time in their lives when looking different from other kids canbe difficult.” Children ages 10 through 13 are invited to attend Camp Discovery at Crosslake, Minnesota, from July 10 to July 16, 2004. Teen Camp Discovery will also be held at this location for teenagers ages 14 through 16, from July 17 to July 21, 2004. An additional Camp Discovery, in Millville, Pennsylvania, will be held from August 15 to August 21, 2004, for children ages 8 through 13. Campers are assigned locations depending on age and space availability. Camp Discovery is completely free to campers. All campers receive full tuition and transportation scholarships to attend Camp Discovery through the generous contributions of AAD members, corporations, individuals, and organizations.

Recently, the AAD established an endowmentfund for Camp Discovery to guarantee the continuation of this important program. In December it met its goal of $2.5 million. The Academy has also established an endowment for Teen Camp Discovery to ensure that during the often-challenging transition from teenager to adult, Camp Discovery remains available for teenagers with serious dermatologic conditions.

Applications for this year’s Camp Discovery are currently being accepted and are due to the Academy by Friday, April 16, 2004. The 2004 application can be found on the Academy’s website, www.aad.org. Potential campers must have a letter of recommendation from their dermatologist. Members of the Academy are encouraged to recommend candidates for Camp Discovery. For more information about Camp Discovery, or to make a contribution to Camp Discovery, call the AAD at 847-330-0230 or visit the Academy’s web site at www.aad.org.

Excerpted from the American Academy of Dermatology press release, December 12, 2003.