Camp Blue Bird

America's first adult cancer camp

For nearly 40 years, Camp Bluebird has served as the place for adult cancer survivors to gather and relax in the spring and fall. The three-day retreat offers a unique experience, providing campers with education, support and encouragement after a cancer diagnosis. The most recent camp was held Oct. 10-12 for 45 cancer survivors. View the October camp photos.


Did you know? Camp Bluebird is America’s first adult cancer camp! The idea came from Louis Josof, an oncology counselor at Ascension St. Vincent’s in Birmingham. In 1985, he sought funding from a local Telephone Pioneers club. The organization was so touched by Louis’ idea they awarded him 10 times the amount of his funding request. The camp became so successful that Louis shared his idea with other hospitals in the southeast. 


Today, Camp Bluebird is held in many locations throughout the country and is the longest-running camp of its kind. At one point there were 36 Camp Bluebirds camps in 24 states. The camp is named after the bluebird because the Pioneers organization at the time was working to protect the Eastern bluebird. The name is also fitting because the bluebird is a symbol of hope and renewal.


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