Campers Cope With AIDS INTRO: While many Americans are in the process of recovering from the hurricanes of the last month, there are some who’ve spent years dealing with their own private storm – often without support. Kim Riemland reports on a special place for those who seek acceptance and hope while living with AIDS. SCRIPT: (Locator: Sisters, Oregon) Everyone can appreciate fresh air, time to nurture your creative side, a retreat from everyday life. But for those who come to this camp, everyday life can be a struggle. Doug Finnell/Camper: “I have been HIV positive since 1989.” Julie Smith/Camper: “I tested positive in 1993. I got it from a man I was dating.” “Strength for the Journey” is a camp for people living with AIDS. Jim Powell/Camper: “’Strength for the Journey’ has given me a chance to learn what life is.” For one long weekend each year, they’re reminded they aren’t alone. Greg Sabin/Dean of Camp: “What I tell people when they ask me is that it’s like being dipped in a vat of love for a week, because that’s the space that we create here.” This program was founded in the late 80’s by a United Methodist pastor who was HIV positive. He wanted to reach out to those who often felt rejected by society, and even by their churches. Ricky Casias/Camper: “I want to try to come to camp every year of my life that I’m alive because I feel that ‘Strength for the Journey’ is giving me my life back.” Ricky Casias says before coming here he tried to drink his problems away. At last year’s camp he found sobriety, and understanding friends who showed him hope. Ricky Casias/Camper: “It’s not that you have to give up just because you have the disease.” The journey these campers are on may not be easy, but they say they leave here stronger, and ready for the road ahead. Song out: “Till we come home…” TAG: Church, organization and individual donations allow campers to attend, regardless of their ability to pay. Several United Methodist conferences host annual “Strength for the Journey” camps. For more information on this camp, check online at www.gocamping.org or phone 1-800-593-7539 x43. Also see: United Methodist HIV/AIDS camp offers hope.
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