Home / Health / Childhood Cancer Survivor Finds Strength at Camp Okizu
Childhood Cancer Survivor Finds Strength at Camp Okizu
28 Feb
Summary
- Mabel Wong, diagnosed with rare AML, found community at Camp Okizu.
- Camp Okizu supports children and families affected by childhood cancer.
- The nonprofit's Berry Creek campus was destroyed in 2020 fires.
Mabel Wong, an adventurous six-year-old, was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a rare blood cancer. Her diagnosis drastically shifted her family's life, moving from normal childhood concerns to urgent medical treatments at UCSF. The experience was isolating for parents Tim and Linda, and for Mabel's younger sister, Sammy.
After undergoing extensive treatment, including an eight-month period where a medical pole was her constant companion, Mabel celebrated remission in January 2022. This victory came after two years of dedicated fighting, with hospital staff marking her significant milestone.
Following Mabel's recovery, the Wong family discovered Camp Okizu, a non-profit dedicated to supporting families affected by childhood cancer. The camp provided a much-needed sense of community and healing.
Mabel found it comforting to connect with others who shared similar experiences. Her sister Sammy also found a safe space to discuss her feelings. The camp, whose original Berry Creek campus was destroyed in the 2020 North Complex fires, is rebuilding in Calaveras, California.
Camp Okizu relies on donor generosity, such as from its annual Art Inspiring Hope Gala, with tickets still available for the upcoming March 14 event. ABC7 is a proud sponsor and will be present as emcee.
