Know Cancer

The American Cancer Society's Arizona Camp Sunrise, the first camp in Arizona for children with cancer, began in 1983. There were 23 cancer patients and 8 staff, and it was held in a pasture in the White Mountains. Everyone slept in tents and pitched in with the cooking. In 1985, the camp moved to the R-C Scout Ranch, Northeast of Payson. And thanks to the generous donations and contributions of many Arizonans, the facilities now include seven sleeper cabins, a fully equipped dining hall and kitchen, and a medical center. The Sidekicks program, the only program in the state made specifically for the siblings of cancer patients, started in 1988. The American Cancer Society recognized that these children have unique needs also, and deserved a program of their own.