Cook Children’s Camp ID: Connecting and Building Community

Cook Children’s Camp ID (Immune Deficiency) was created in 2010 thanks to the vision of Betty Stroud, practice administrator of Cook Children’s Immunology Clinic, and Christine Curtis, clinic coordinator. Together, they saw the need for a special place where kids with immune deficiencies could just be kids. And so, with their dedication, they helped establish the first and only camp for children with immune deficiencies in Texas.

Suzanne Whitworth, M.D., division chief of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at Cook Children’s, was the first physician to attend Camp ID in 2011, demonstrating early medical support for the program.

The camp’s reach has significantly expanded, particularly with the involvement of Natalia Chaimowitz, M.D., Ph.D., who has been instrumental in spearheading Cook Children’s Immunology Clinic since 2022. Thanks to Dr. Chaimowitz’s leadership and the clinic’s support, Camp ID now proudly hosts 19 families, a testament to its growing impact.

“We hosted the 2025 Camp ID in March and doubled the size of our attendance this year with 19 families,” Nurse Practitioner Rachael Scott, said. “It’s the one weekend a year families really look forward to and one family even said it was the first family vacation they’ve ever had!”

“I’ve always believed that one of the most important things in life is the connection we make with others,” Stroud said. “That is what camp is all about—making new connections, friendships and memories.”

At Camp ID, campers have the opportunity to make friends and participate in unforgettable activities – like fishing, playing ball, climbing a ropes course and having campfires – all while feeling safe with on-site medical support. They also go beyond traditional fun and build supportive, lasting relationships with others who share similar life experiences.

“I believe what our patients and families love most about camp is the opportunity to meet and connect with other families who are going through similar medical and life experiences,” Daniele Gibbons, MS, a certified child life specialist, said. “Seeing our patients and families build new relationships, try new things and experience the spirit of camp brings our staff so much joy!”

Many families have had the experience of a lifetime and look forward to camp every year.

Alison and Daniel Large have been bringing their kids to Camp ID since 2018. Their son, Carter, who has an immune disorder and is a patient of Dr. Chaimowitz, first experienced the camp at just two and a half years old.

“For children with immune disorders like Carter, Camp ID at Camp John Mark is more than just a weekend camp—it’s a life-changing experience,” Dr. Chaimowitz said. “It gives them a chance to step outside the routines of medical care, build lasting friendships with others who understand their journey, and experience the joy of simply being a kid in a safe, supportive environment.”

Despite facing significant physical challenges, including navigating life in a wheelchair, difficulties with gripping and eating, and frequent hospitalizations (22 visits in 2019 and 15 in 2020), Carter has demonstrated remarkable persistence and an unyielding spirit. His journey has not only cultivated incredible mental strength within himself but has also profoundly inspired his entire family.

“Being hospitalized can be so difficult because you want to do everything in your power to care for your kid and try to make their experiences easier,” Alison said. “It’s also hard on parents and Cook Children’s is great about helping you feel better.”

Camp staff and medical staff work together to operate Camp ID, which creates a safe environment where kids can simply be themselves and share the magic of camp.

“I recommend other families to try the camp 100%! Camp ID is amazing and the staff and volunteers is so fantastic,” Alison said. “They really work to build up your kid and your family!”

Alison and Daniel’s daughter, Cadence, also loves camp and the opportunity to meet other siblings. Alison and Daniel say being with others who are walking the same path fosters a sense of community and understanding.

Register for Camp ID 2026
When: February 27 – March 1, 2026
Where: Camp John Marc (4925 Greenville Avenue, Suite 400, Dallas, TX 75206)

Registration opens in the fall. All Cook Children’s Immunology Clinic patients will receive a “save-the-date” in October. Enrollment is on a first-come, first-served basis with a waitlist available once all spots are filled.

Have questions? Email Betty Stroud: betty.stroud@cookchildrens.org.