Celebrating 40 Years: Camp Chimer Brings Joy to Children with Kidney Disease

40 Years of Transformative Experience at Camp Chimer

The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) of Kansas, Missouri, and Arkansas is proudly celebrating a monumental milestone – the 40th anniversary of NKF's Camp Chimer. This innovative summer camp has become a beacon of hope and joy for children battling kidney disease over the past four decades. Established in 1986, Camp Chimer caters to young campers aged 9 to 18 who are either undergoing dialysis or have had a kidney transplant, providing them with a unique opportunity to enjoy a summer camp experience tailored to their specific medical needs.

One of the campers, Emmitt P., who is attending Camp Chimer for the ninth year, expressed his love for the camp by stating, "Everyone is so welcoming, and I feel safe knowing they understand my transplant journey and how to keep me healthy and safe." The camp operates under the guidance of healthcare professionals from Children's Mercy Hospital, ensuring a medically sound environment where campers can engage in a variety of activities once thought unattainable due to their health conditions.

Executive Director Tiffany Scheffler remarked, "Camp Chimer is truly a magical place. It allows children to simply enjoy being kids—creating unforgettable memories, developing friendships, and embracing new adventures. Families can comfortably entrust their children to us, knowing they are safe and having the time of their lives."

The founder, Dr. Bradley Warady, a pediatric nephrologist, has been integral in shaping Camp Chimer since its inception. He wanted to provide a space for children who were previously denied summer camp experiences due to their medical needs. "We wanted to ensure that children with kidney failure, on dialysis, or post-transplant could enjoy the same joys of summer camp that healthy kids can enjoy," he explained. The camp was designed not just to address children’s medical needs but also their emotional and social necessities.

During the years, Camp Chimer has facilitated a supportive and medically supervised environment where campers forge friendships, build self-esteem, and participate in activities otherwise unavailable to them. Yona Bienvenu, a second-year camper, exclaimed, "I can swim now since I have had my transplant. At home, I couldn't swim due to my dialysis, but at camp, I could enjoy swimming and simply have fun."

The bonds that develop among campers are often deep and long-lasting. Emmitt P. shared, “At first, I was nervous to swim because of my scars. But I met others with the same experiences, and it made me feel comfortable. I forgot about my scars and just had fun.” Such connections often extend beyond the camp, leading many former campers, like Matthew Kissel, to return as counselors to mentor the next generation. “The best part about Camp Chimer is the connections you make. It’s rare for these kids to talk to others who understand their experiences,” Matthew stated.

The camp activities range from swimming and outdoor adventures to dances and team-building exercises, providing a space where kids like Yona and Emmitt can thrive without the shadow of their illness. Dr. Warady emphasizes the importance of fun within the camp experience, saying, “We assure parents that their children will be safe, receive their medications, and, most importantly, have a great time.”

With such powerful experiences shaping the lives of its participants, Camp Chimer has solidified a cherished tradition over the years. The recent 40th Anniversary celebration from July 31 to August 2, 2026, at a Camp Retreat Center in Kansas City, included memorable activities honoring its history, alumni, volunteers, donors, and the families impacted by the program.

As the recognition of Camp Chimer progresses, Dr. Marc Hurlbert, CEO of the National Kidney Foundation, highlighted the significance of this milestone: “Forty years of Camp Chimer signals more than just a celebration; it signifies four decades of changing lives, creating lasting memories, and reminding our young campers that they are never alone. We are grateful to Dr. Warady and all who contribute to this extraordinary legacy."

Thanks to the generosity of donors, sponsors, and volunteers, NKF’s Camp Chimer remains free for all participating families, furthering its mission of providing a life-changing experience for children facing kidney disease. For more information on how to get involved or support the camp, visit Kidney.org/CampChimer.

In conclusion, Camp Chimer stands as a testament to the power of community, advocacy, and robust medical support, ensuring that every child with kidney disease can cherish the joys of childhood through the spirit of summer camp, paving the way for hopeful experiences in the years to come.