Scottsbluff, NE - Hope. Optimism. Caring. These three simple words hold a powerful message for cancer survivors who attend the annual Camp Hope weekend at Scottsbluff’s Trails West YMCA Camp. Regional West’s Cancer Treatment Center is accepting registrations for this year’s camp, to be held August 27, 28, and 29. All cancer survivors and a support person of their choice are invited to attend.

Thanks to the generosity of the Regional West Foundation, there is no cost to attend, but pre-registration is required. For more information, contact Camp Director Carol Diffendaffer at 308.630.1535 or The Cancer Treatment Center at 308.630.1348. Registration deadline is August 16.

Camp Hope is a three-day, two-night camp set in the serene surroundings of the Trails West Camp. Creative educational workshops, along with inspirational and fun activities, are woven into the exceptional experience of Camp Hope. Camp counselors include Regional West physicians, nurses, therapists, clergy, counselors, pharmacists, social workers, associates, and volunteers. Cancer survivors and a family member or support person are invited to attend. The camp recently expanded to include children who are either cancer survivors, siblings of survivors, or children of survivors. The children will participate in activities geared specifically for them at Camp Hope’s Day Camp.

“Camp Hope is a time of support and sharing. It really is a great weekend for everyone whose life has been affected by cancer,” said Carol Diffendaffer, CSW, OSW-C, Cancer Treatment Center social worker and the camp’s director. “Campers can expect a weekend of sharing, learning, fun, entertainment and relaxation—it’s a wonderful family experience for survivors, both children and adults, and their families.”

“Some experiences carry a price tag,” said Diffendaffer. “Camp Hope is priceless.”

Regional West Health Services, with over 1,800 employees, provides comprehensive and innovative health care services for the people and communities of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota and Wyoming. With over 110 active physicians, 95 percent of whom are board certified or board eligible, plus an additional 25 consulting specialists, we offer care that spans more than 30 medical specialties. Regional West Medical Center, a subsidiary of Regional West Health Services, is accredited by The Joint Commission and is one of three Level II Trauma Centers in the state of Nebraska.