Tillery Compassionate Care recently hosted its annual day camp for children and their families who have experienced a death‑related loss. Camp Forget‑Me‑Not was held on Saturday, May 16, at Camp Joshua. This year’s theme, Giving Hope Wings, centered around healing, remembrance, and a special butterfly release.

Camp Forget‑Me‑Not is a free day camp designed to support children and families as they navigate grief. The camp provides a safe, compassionate space to share memories, honor loved ones, and connect with others who understand the experience of loss. Participants also learn appropriate coping skills and ways to understand the emotions that accompany grief.

Campers enjoyed a full day of activities, including horseback riding, fishing, crafts, and hands‑on art projects such as decorating memory rocks and creating personalized canvas bags. Each camper also received a handmade memory bear created from clothing or fabric that belonged to their loved one.

In the afternoon, participants took part in a powerful activity called “breaking through grief.” Earlier in the day, each child created a poster representing the grief they were carrying. During the activity, they ran through their posters—symbolizing strength, release, and the courage to move forward.

Longtime camp volunteer Pat Mills shared, “I love camp every year. This year, the children spent a lot of time outdoors enjoying the activities. I think it was an especially good time for the campers.”

The event registration, meals, and all supplies are provided at no cost to families. Camp Forget‑Me‑Not is open to children ages 6–17 and their families in Stanly and Montgomery Counties who have experienced a death, regardless of whether their loved one received hospice services.

The day camp is made possible through the dedication of Tillery Compassionate Care staff and volunteers and is sponsored by United Way of Stanly County.

To support programs like Camp Forget‑Me‑Not, please visit tillerycompassionatecare.org or call 704.983.4216

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