From 19th – 22nd June, Tom’s Trust held our second ever ‘Better Together Camp’. 18 boys aged 9–14, all living with a brain tumour, came together for a weekend filled with fun, friendship, adventure and plenty of laughter.
We had the pleasure of being joined by twenty incredible volunteers, both from Great North Children’s Hospital in Newcastle, and Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool – and three of the team from Tom’s Trust.
Now, both Charlotte (Charlie) Brown, Events and Data Administrator, and Jada Wright, PR and Engagement Officer, have shared how impactful this unique opportunity was for them in their own words.
Charlie’s Perspective
Attending this year’s Tom’s Trust Better Together Camp is tricky to put into words.
I came away with ALL the feelings and only now (over a week later), do I feel that I’m starting to process the experience.
It was truly a joy and a privilege to have spent the time at Calvert Lakes with those 18 boys and to witness their bravery in overcoming fears, their zest for life and to see the huge smiles on their faces.
To have had the chance to observe the team of clinicians; from neurosurgeons to nurses, clinical and neuro psychologists and volunteers doing what they do best; to see their interactions and relationships with the boys was invaluable.
It has given me a much clearer picture of what we do here at Tom’s Trust. It’s given me even more motivation and context to apply to what I do, and how my role fits within the organisation, and therefore what small impact I can have to move us forward to help even more young people with brain tumours.
The trust that the young people put in their adult buddies and the rest of us was nothing short of inspiring, not least given that so many of them had never spent time away from their families before.
I am beyond grateful to our leadership team for trusting me and giving me the opportunity to experience Tom’s Trust Better Together Camp 2026.
Jada’s Perspective
I’ve always had the heart to help kids, so that’s what I set out to do whenever I can. Every child is different, so every experience is different – but I can honestly say I did not expect Tom’s Trust’s Better Together Camp to be so impactful.
I was lucky enough to be both a volunteer and a buddy to two of the campers. On arrival, I was anxious to say the least – yes, I wanted to do well in my role, but I also desperately wanted the boys to genuinely enjoy themselves.
On the first night, whilst all 18 boys played ice breakers, they briefly turned away from the volunteers amidst the game. In that moment, I was faced with the very sobering visual of each child’s individual scalp scars, from various head surgeries and treatments. That shifted something within me forever, and I was not only reminded why I said yes to coming, but I also felt my want for this camp to be a success, climb.
However, in just 72 hours, those boys had completely transformed both themselves, and me. I hadn’t anticipated the emotional rollercoaster of meeting, taking care of and simply existing in the world of each camper. Even those days were just a snapshot, a tiny slither depicting the reality of their days as children living with brain tumours.
Yet every single boy embodied the epitome of boldness, kindness and bravery that weekend. Regardless of their various fears, nerves, health, and cognitive/physical disabilities – they all wholeheartedly jumped into everything camp had to offer.
Some were hesitant at first, but considering that, for a good handful of them, it was their first time away from home – their perseverance alone immediately set such an incredible standard.
I saw those boys, who medically had the odds stacked against them, sprint across high tree top platforms with nothing but excitement and a harness – whilst my own legs wobbled uncontrollably behind them. I watched them all laugh and play after their medication every evening, despite some still feeling weakened from previous in-hospital treatment – whilst internally acknowledging what a big deal I make when having a routine blood test once a year. I witnessed them boldly form new friendships every lunch break – whilst being aware how nervous I still get to meet new people as an adult.
All those factors made these children and young people nothing short of inspirations.
I’ll never forget the Monday morning before home time, when I asked one of our youngest campers (aged 9) what advice he’d give to someone who’s scared of trying new things.
He looked me firmly in the eye, and said in the wisest voice possible:
“Just take it slow and steady. You’ll be fine.”
And…he’s right. Rush turns into panic. Panic turns eagerness into anxiety – particularly as, biologically, the feelings of fear and excitement are the same. And that distinction is what those campers showed – not lasting worry, but eventual fearlessness, courage, wit, humour, kindness and gentleness (particularly when petting the odd armadillo and snake…!)
I will cherish those memories of non-stop giggles, of encouraging cheers, and quiet reflections with me forever. I encourage everyone who finds an opportunity to experience something as unique as this, to do it at least once.
It’s life-changing.
