First conceptualised in 2009, the project, called Camp Simba, aims to address the emotional needs of children whose family members are battling cancer. Amid the challenges that these children face, Camp Simba offers them a safe haven to enjoy their childhood while developing skills such as resilience and courage. The camp also fosters a sense of community among the children, ensuring they never feel alone in their struggles.
“The camp helps these children find a community of people who are possibly going through a similar experience as them, which can help them bond, and find new friends as their current friends might not understand their situation fully,” said Mr Mukul Prasad, one of the Duke-NUS camp facilitators from the Class of 2026.
Over three days, Mr Prasad and his fellow camp facilitators took 41 children, aged seven to sixteen years old, on an action-packed adventure. From engaging games like Scavenger Hunt and Heads Up charades to spirited bus karaoke sessions on the way to the Night Safari and West Coast Park, the children’s enthusiasm was endless.
But the activities were not just fun for the children. Mr Nathaniel Too, another Duke-NUS camp facilitator from the Class of 2026, said: “I learnt the importance of being present in any interaction can bring more comfort than just solving their medical problems that they may face!”
For most camp facilitators, interacting with the campers was the most rewarding aspect of participating in Camp Simba. For Duke-NUS Class of 2026’s Ms Chen Ying Jie, the camp’s most poignant moment unfolded during its psychosocial activity. Designed to help the young campers become more emotionally resilient, the activity took inspiration from the Disney movie Inside Out.
The most heartwarming moment for her came when the camper she was paired with expressed her desire to be like Joy from the movie because of the character’s persevering nature: “I am thankful for the privilege of witnessing the emotional growth of the campers in my group over the three days. Camp Simba 2023 has certainly been a memorable experience for me, having witnessed the demonstrative power of empathy, support and community in helping children overcome challenges.”
“From the camp, I learnt that I should listen more to people and get a good understanding of their situation to be able to fully empathise with them,” said Mr Chan Yan Zhi, a Duke-NUS camp facilitator from the Class of 2026. “Regardless of circumstances, this is something that I will definitely remember and bring with me to be a more understanding and empathetic doctor.”
Throughout the three-day event, the camp facilitators realised the power of empathy, support and community in helping the children overcome adversities. To them, Camp Simba serves as a reminder of the importance of creating a nurturing atmosphere where children with cancer-afflicted loved ones can find joy despite facing tremendous challenges.
Dr Suzanne Goh, Associate Dean of Student Affairs, said: “When I witnessed the dedication of our medical students at Camp Simba, their tireless efforts to bring comfort, joy and support to the children facing adversity, my heart swelled with pride and hope for the future of healthcare. Engaging in projects like these not only nurtures compassion and resilience in our students but also reinforces the profound impact they can have on the lives of those they serve.”