Children and teens with congenital or acquired heart disease, ages 8 to 18, may attend Camp Joyful Hearts. Eligible campers are cardiac patients actively being followed by a cardiologist at the Heart Institute or another medical center. Final admittance to camp is based upon review of our medical staff. We only accept campers for whom we can offer the appropriate level of care. Applying to camp early will reserve your spot, pending approval from our camp medical team
Family members or aides are not permitted to come to camp. An important piece of the camp experience is gaining independence and leadership through experiencing new and challenging things.
Additional FAQs
What developmental skills do campers need to have?
Campers must be able to communicate their needs, must be able to provide personal hygiene on their own (including being fully potty trained), follow instructions with only minimal help, and feel comfortable participating in small- to medium-sized group activities.
Can campers who need overnight G-tube feeds come to camp?
Yes. Overnight GT feeds are accepted.
Are continuous infusion pumps allowed at camp?
Infusion pumps may be accepted, but they will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis based on camper and staff familiarity.
Can campers use oxygen or nighttime breathing support at camp?
Yes. Campers who use oxygen or who on stable overnight BiPAP/CPAP may attend.
Are tracheostomies or ventilators allowed?
No. Campers cannot have a tracheostomy or require continuous ventilation.
