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The Valley Today is a radio show and podcast dedicated to shining a light on the vibrant community leaders and local events that make the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia truly special.  Insightful conversations, engaging stories, and event details connect listeners with the heart and soul of the valley, showcasing its unique culture, initiatives, and people.
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  2. Brothers, Sisters, and Survivors: Special Love and Camp Fantastic

Brothers, Sisters, and Survivors: Special Love and Camp Fantastic

Apr 30, 2026

Janet sits down with Elena Jeannotte to learn about Special Love for Children with Cancer, a nonprofit serving families across the Mid-Atlantic with free camps, family programs, financial assistance, and scholarships. Elena shares the organization's history, its flagship camp programs, and how the community can get involved.

Topics Covered

The History of Special Love

  • Founded in the 1980s by Tom and Sheila Baker of Winchester, VA after losing their daughter Julie to lymphoma in 1978
  • Tom Baker partnered with the NIH and the Northern Virginia 4-H Center to launch the first camp in 1983 with 29 campers
  • Now serves up to 100 campers per session, 43 years later — still partnered with NIH and the 4-H Center

Camp Fantastic

  • Week-long summer camp for children ages 7–17 with cancer
  • Held at the Northern Virginia 4-H Center in Front Royal, VA
  • NIH provides approximately 50 medical staff (oncologists, nurses, pharmacists, social workers)
  • Children on active chemotherapy are welcome — medical facilities are set up on-site
  • Activities include archery, fishing, swimming, tie-dye, duct tape crafts, and a talent show

BRASS Camp (Brothers and Sisters)

  • Free camp for siblings of children with cancer
  • Held at a waterfront facility on the Chesapeake Bay in Leonardtown, MD
  • Designed to make siblings feel celebrated and understood
  • All counselors are former BRASS campers
  • Research published in medical journals has documented the positive impact on siblings' well-being

Family & Support Programs

  • Summer Family Day — May 9th at Smokey Glen, MD; free all-day event for the whole family
  • Parents Weekend — Free retreat at a hotel in Tysons Corner, VA; includes speakers, sound baths, massages, and a dinner dance
  • Bereaved Families — All programs are open to families who have lost a child to cancer
  • Financial Assistance — Available to families anywhere in the Mid-Atlantic with a child cancer diagnosis and financial need (help with mortgage, utilities, transportation)
  • Scholarships — For survivors and siblings pursuing college or trade school
  • 13 programs offered throughout the year, all free to families

How to Get Involved

  • Volunteer at events including the upcoming golf tournament
  • Play in or sponsor the golf tournament
  • Donate to help fund camp and family programs

Upcoming Events

🏌️ Annual Golf Tournament

  • Date: Friday, June 5th
  • Location: Shenandoah Valley Golf Club, Front Royal, VA
  • Includes raffle, networking, and a family story from a Special Love family
  • Learn more: https://specialove.org/event/slgolf2026/ 

⛅ Summer Family Day

  • Date: May 9th
  • Location: Smokey Glen, Maryland

Connect with Special Love

  • Website: speciallove.org (one "L")
  • Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn
  • Service Area: Mid-Atlantic region (Shenandoah Valley to Norfolk, up to Baltimore)
  • Children under 18 with a cancer diagnosis are encouraged to reach out