Camp Quality Is Helping Kids Fight Cancer

Childhood cancer is a growing problem. But, one young survivor is learning how to cope -- thanks to local camp. Camp Quality of Louisiana is a safe haven for kids where they can truly be kids again. Twelve year-old Shelbi Wingfield has survived cancer for the last seven years. Camp Quality only comes once a summer, but she says the experience last all year long. Emily Wingfield calls her daughter Shelbi a fighter. "The Lord knew that she would need to be that strong will to get through this,” said Emily Wingfield. Shelbi was diagnosed with a cancerous tumor in her brain when she was five. "I had this huge bandage on my head and it felt like I couldn't see or anything,” said Shelbi Wingfield. Seven years and two surgeries later she's only smiles. Shelbi says her strength comes from the people who love her including people at Camp Quality. "I really can relate to the stuff they're going through and it feels like I'm going through the same thing,” said Shelbi Wingfield. Camp Quality is designed for kids like Shelbi who battle cancer on a daily basis. One week every summer Shelbi has the time of her life. "You get to go fishing, you get to do activities, and you get to go swimming, horseback riding, plays, rodeos,” said Shelbi Wingfield. Shelbi says the camp isn't just about the week at Caney Lake, it's forming lasting bonds with kids and counselors alike. "They came to Shreveport when I was done with Chemo,” said Shelbi Wingfield. Shelbi's mom says Shelbi's first camp was hard to say goodbye....now she knows it's just made her stronger. "When she got off, the first thing she said was mom I had so much fun I can't wait to go back next year,” said Emily Wingfield. Shelbi still must go for checkups every three months, but she says Camp Quality makes dealing with cancer a chance to be a kid all the time. Shelbi just returned from St. Jude hospital in Memphis Tennessee after two months of radiation treatment. You can keep up with Shelbi by visiting her website on the following link: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/shelbimae There you'll find out how you can help Camp Quality and other programs that help kick cancer to the curb.