ANN ARBOR, MI - The University of Michigan Health System is sponsoring burn survivors treated at the U-M Trauma Burn Center and their families to attend Family Burn Camp this weekend.

The Family Burn Camp, developed by the U-M Trauma Burn Center to assist burn-injured survivors and their families in adapting to life interrupted by traumatic injury, will be held Oct. 31 through Nov. 2 at Camp Copneconic in Fenton, Mich.
Recovery from a burn injury is a life long journey. When a patient leaves the hospital after physically recovering from their burns, they return to society where their friends, co-workers or, classmates are often inexperienced regarding burn injuries. They must contend with many difficult psychological, physical and emotional issues.

For each burned patient there is a family that is impacted, as well. The trauma is not limited to the person bearing the scars but extends to the immediate family and beyond. A family struggles with feelings of guilt and sadness as they contemplate their loved one's future. Some families must also resolve the loss of family members and personal belongings.

The U-M Trauma Burn Center staff recognizes this difficult and often painful transition. Consequently, the staff understands the importance for spouses, parents, children and siblings to be with other families who have experienced the same injuries, painful rehabilitation and social consequences. They can share their emotions and stories in a safe, nurturing and fun environment. U-M Trauma Burn staff includes nurses and social workers, along with local firefighters.

Family Burn Camp is designed to offer families an opportunity to enjoy the activities and experiences of a camp setting, such as bobbing for apples, cider and donuts, horseback riding, hiking, arts and crafts, canoeing, fishing and team building activities. Families will be able to spend quality time together and marvel at the season’s colors/

There is no charge to any family for participation in this program. Individuals treated at the U-M Trauma Burn Center for a burn injury are eligible to attend Family Burn Camp. Family Burn Camp is made possible by generous donations from organizations, corporations and individuals.

For more information contact, Susan Polan, Burn Camp Coordinator, at (734) 615-1967 or susanmp@umich.edu. To learn more about the U-M Trauma Burn Center, visit www.traumaburn.org.

Written by Steffanie Samuels

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