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Annual camp helps child burn victims

Posted at 6:54 PM, Aug 10, 2013
and last updated 2013-08-10 20:54:28-04

SALT LAKE CITY —  Children who have survived being burned were invited to a special camp that focuses on fun as well as self-empowerment.

The annual Camp Nah Nah Mah is put on by the University of Utah Health Care’s Burn Center in Millcreek Canyon.

Kids between the ages of 6 and 12 were able to swim, learn archery, canoe, create arts and crafts and ride horses without worrying about their outside appearance.

Event organizers said they have counselors at the camp to help the kids work on their emotional and psychological needs like self-esteem and self-empowerment.

Burn Camp Director Brad Wiggins said the event helps children who have been burned realize they are not alone.

“I think the camp programs are very therapeutic for them because in their everyday life they don’t get to spend any time with other burn survivors,” he said. “So, if you think about them, they feel very alone and isolated when they are away from this program. They don’t get to meet other burn survivors that have been through a similar experience, and at the end of the day, this program brings those people together.”

Camp officials said they help about 40 kids each year learn what it means to be a survivor rather than a victim.

The camp began Friday and continues until Tuesday. Click here for more information.