Albany Med Health System helps enrich the lives of children with medically complex conditions
Due to the high level of specialized care needed, children with medically complex conditions are sometimes denied the opportunity to create memorable experiences and partake in the same programs as other youth. But thanks to a partnership between the Albany Med Health System and the Double H Ranch in Lake Luzerne, Warren County, the two organizations have blended medical care into a camp environment to create a space for these children to enjoy activities in a physically safe and medically sound environment.
The Double H Ranch was co-founded by Charles R. Wood and Paul Newman in 1993. It provides specialized programs for children and their families dealing with life-threatening and chronic illnesses. Albany Medical Center doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers provide year-round on-site medical support while Double H Ranch enriches lives by providing adaptive experiences and “medically safe fun.”
The week-long Adirondack summer camp experience at Double H includes fishing, boating, swimming, ziplining and sports. Skiing and snowboarding are the highlight of the winter sessions, and family camps in the spring and fall allow campers, siblings and parents to enjoy camp together. All activities are adapted so anyone can participate. Volunteer healthcare workers from Albany Medical Center are on hand during camp to assist with delivering medication, feeding and other medical needs as necessary.
Participation in Double H results in healthier, more social and confident children. Alumni campers surveyed by the SeriousFun Children’s Network in 2021 credited camp experiences with having a lasting influence on their lives, including:
- 90% developed a willingness to try new things;
- 88% developed an appreciation for diversity;
- 86% developed a sense of empathy and compassion; and
- 85% developed greater self-confidence.
Campers develop a sense of connection with one another, resulting in life-changing resilience and a support structure that helps in their emotional, physical and mental health development.
For more information about this program, contact Leanne DeRosa, senior content specialist, Albany Med Health System, at 518.264.4943 or derosaL@amc.edu.
