Camp Ramah Sasson: A Weekend of Joy, Healing, and Community
Camp Ramah Sasson’s Second Annual Family Pediatric Oncology Shabbaton: April 25-27, 2025
Just over 1 week ago, Camp Ramah Sasson welcomed families from across the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Maryland/DC regions for a second unforgettable pediatric oncology family weekend filled with laughter, tears, hope, and connection.
Alumni and new families alike came together for a meaningful Shabbaton that balanced the energy of camp life with the difficult realities of pediatric cancer. From the moment guests arrived, they were surrounded by a network of caring volunteers who brought compassion, creativity, and love to every aspect of the program.
A Weekend of Camp Magic
Activities throughout the weekend included classic camp fun, engaging arts and crafts, and targeted supportive programs designed for parents, siblings, and children affected by cancer. Whether it was a parent object share circle, a camper scavenger hunt, or a creative project for the whole family, each experience was designed to offer opportunities to share and to build connection and community.
One especially meaningful moment was an art therapist-led session in which families worked individually and as a unit to create their own Birkat HaBayit (blessing for the home). Using a variety of artistic media, participants of all ages, from the youngest campers to their parents, explored color as emotion and expressed heartfelt blessings in words and images. The resulting works were beautiful, powerful reflections of hope, resilience, and love, and provided a lasting keepsake to carry the spirit of Ramah Sasson into each family’s daily life.
Another very powerful experience was Kabbalat Shabbat in the Chorsha (grove)—a spiritual and musical service held beneath the trees. With songs, prayers, and the voices of our community echoing through the grove, it was a moment of peace and unity.
Healing with Paws and Presence
Participants and volunteers alike were especially looked forward to the visit from K-9s for Kids, a wonderful organization that brings therapy dogs and their handlers to children with physical, emotional, and learning challenges. This year, three teams of four-legged friends joined us, instantly lifting spirits. It was remarkable to witness the calming and joyful energy these therapy dogs brought to campers, teens, and adults alike. Thank you to K-9s for Kids for your healing work!
Saturday Night Spirit 
Even a little rain couldn’t dampen the Saturday night excitement! Our indoor campfire and talent show brought big smiles and bigger emotions. Campers and families sang, danced, shared stories, and even made s’mores indoors. The heart of the evening came when one young participant sang a deeply personal version of Matisyahu’s “One Day.” Last year, she shared the stanzas she and her mother wrote as she was going through treatment and then after her surgery. This year, she added a new verse, reflecting continued healing and hope. Her performance brought the entire room to tears. Here are her remarkable words: One Day for Anya
Thank you to everyone who made this weekend possible: the staff, volunteers, clergy, families, and of course, our remarkable participants. Together, we created a space where joy and pain could live side by side and where healing happened through prayer, laughter, song, and story.
Ramah Sasson programs are a part of Ramah New England’s growing efforts to support Jewish Families facing challenging times. Next year we will offer 3 weekends:
- Ramah Sasson Weekend for Young Professionals Who have Lost a Parent or Sibling: March 6-8, 2026