About the Event

Colon Camp is a one-of-a-kind, off-the-grid retreat that brings together young colorectal cancer survivors to bond, learn, and hype each other up in a way only fellow survivors can. Picture an epic camp getaway in a homey setting: hammocks, lake hangs, late night conversations, firepits, and loads of laughs—but with a twist. Here, you’ll also find a private chef, compassionate experts, and powerful talks about the realities of cancer and the resources and support that can heal fresh wounds.

At Colon Camp, there’s no tiptoeing around the tough stuff; it’s a place where being a survivor is celebrated unapologetically. From team challenges to art experiences to karaoke nights and more, this is the place unfiltered conversations get real, fast. Colon Camp is about building friendships while healing and equipping each other with the strength to keep fighting.

About the Event

Colon Camp is a one-of-a-kind, off-the-grid retreat that brings together young colorectal cancer survivors to bond, learn, and hype each other up in a way only fellow survivors can. Picture an epic camp getaway in a homey setting: hammocks, lake hangs, late night conversations, firepits, and loads of laughs—but with a twist. Here, you’ll also find a private chef, compassionate experts, and powerful talks about the realities of cancer and the resources and support that can heal fresh wounds.

At Colon Camp, there’s no tiptoeing around the tough stuff; it’s a place where being a survivor is celebrated unapologetically. From team challenges to art experiences to karaoke nights and more, this is the place unfiltered conversations get real, fast. Colon Camp is about building friendships while healing and equipping each other with the strength to keep fighting.

Schedule of Events

We are still putting the agenda together, but here’s a glimpse into 2025 Camp.

3:00 PM EST

  • Cleveland Airport (CLE)

You’ll need to arrive at the Cleveland Airport (CLE) by 3pm. Transportation to Camp from the airport will be arranged.

ALL DAY

  • Colon Camp

A day full of structured and unstructured activities including workshops on healthy healing, journaling, and cooking. Leisure time for hiking, fishing, lake activities, crafts, naps, and games.

ALL DAY

  • Colon Camp

A day full of structured and unstructured activities including an “Ask the Expert,” breathwork, and mocktails workshops. Leisure time for hiking, fishing, lake activities, crafts, naps, and games before a Team Challenge.

ALL DAY

  • Colon Camp

We will spend the morning learning about ways to stay engaged with one another and the colorectal cancer community. We’ll have a fun group outing and follow that up with a final night BBQ – a tradition of Colon Camp.

Anyone is welcome to attend the BBQ – past campers, sponsors, and those in the area. Get tickets now!

ALL DAY

  • Colon Camp
You’ll be transported to the Cleveland, OH airport based on your flight time.

The Power of Colon Camp

The Power of Colon Camp

Jamie Orth Taylor Scholarship

Jamie was diagnosed with stage IV colorectal cancer at age 27. After attending Colon Camp, she was a changed girl. “It changed her life and her attitude about cancer, she accepted her diagnosis and began advocating for others,” said her mom, Jody Usenick. Jamie passed away in June 2018, however her family has established a scholarship that sends one camper to Colon Camp each year, covering both the cost of camp and all travel expenses.

Jamie Orth Taylor Scholarship

Jamie was diagnosed with stage IV colorectal cancer at age 27. After attending Colon Camp, she was a changed girl. “It changed her life and her attitude about cancer, she accepted her diagnosis and began advocating for others,” said her mom, Jody Usenick. Jamie passed away in June 2018, however her family has established a scholarship that sends one camper to Colon Camp each year, covering both the cost of camp and all travel expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Colon Camp is a five-day, four-night getaway for anyone who was diagnosed with colorectal cancer at a young age. Colon Camp provides an opportunity to bond with a small group of people who have been in your shoes and are ready to connect, share, and kick back with new friends.

Expect four days of group activities, time outdoors, instructor-led courses, free time, good food, and a supportive and relaxing atmosphere.
  • Anyone who was diagnosed with colorectal cancer between the ages of 18-39 and is currently 39 or younger.
  • Proof of diagnosis and insurance will be required upon acceptance.
Expect further communication from us after you apply. Final acceptance decisions will be made by the end of February.

You must submit your application by Sunday, February 19th.

You are responsible for travel to and from the Cleveland, OH airport. Everything else is on us!
We have many generous family members from past campers who would like to provide scholarships to camp. Don’t let cost be a barrier!
In the past, Colon Club has welcomed survivors and caregivers alike. However, we have pivoted the event to focus on the 18-39 year olds, and recognized a need to build community amongst patients. We are hopeful to expand camp to include an offering for caregivers in the future.
Colon Camp is built by and for the AYA colorectal cancer community, and only accepted campers and staff are allowed to attend. Pets are not allowed.
Colon Camp is in the Cleveland, OH area, approximately 1 hour away from the airport. Travel to and from camp facilities from the Cleveland Hopkins airport will be handled by us – you just need to get to the airport!
Absolutely. The Cleveland Clinic has an AYA cancer clinic, and there are smaller hospitals with emergency departments closer to the camp facilities. If you need medical attention, you will get it.
Yes. As long as you fall within the age group and have not attended in the past, please apply!

Colon Camp is designed to help you identify and heal from the trauma of cancer. Part of that healing may involve sharing your story with fellow campers, however this event is not designed to help you share your story. (If you’re ready for that, check out the Fight CRC Ambassador program.) This event is designed to help provide health and wellness opportunities that enable you to heal.

Colon Camp is transitioning to focus on health and wellness. We will not have the modeling experience that previous camps have offered. We will have photo and video opportunities, however the camp’s focus is on healing versus storytelling. We do plan to release a calendar in 2026 that will raise awareness of colorectal cancer in young adults and may include camper stories. However, that is not the focus of camp.
Colon Camp is currently limited to 12 attendees. We have hopes to grow this program in the future; please apply to join the wait list if you’re interested.

Follow @ColonClub on Instagram and join the Young Survivor Support group in our Community of Champions app. We have also built partnerships with groups like First Descents, Stupid Cancer, Elephants & Tea, and others who provide similar experiences. We will notify you about these opportunities. We also hope you’ll consider joining us for Call-on Congress or Climb for a Cure. While these are not “camp” events, they will introduce you to others in the community, many who have faced colorectal cancer way too young.

Frequently Asked Questions

Colon Camp is a five-day, four-night getaway for anyone who was diagnosed with colorectal cancer at a young age. Colon Camp provides an opportunity to bond with a small group of people who have been in your shoes and are ready to connect, share, and kick back with new friends.

Expect four days of group activities, time outdoors, instructor-led courses, free time, good food, and a supportive and relaxing atmosphere.
  • Anyone who was diagnosed with colorectal cancer between the ages of 18-39 and is currently 39 or younger.
  • Proof of diagnosis and insurance will be required upon acceptance.
Expect further communication from us after you apply. Final acceptance decisions will be made by the end of February.

You must submit your application by Sunday, February 19th.

You are responsible for travel to and from the Cleveland, OH airport. Everything else is on us!
We have many generous family members from past campers who would like to provide scholarships to camp. Don’t let cost be a barrier!
In the past, Colon Club has welcomed survivors and caregivers alike. However, we have pivoted the event to focus on the 18-39 year olds, and recognized a need to build community amongst patients. We are hopeful to expand camp to include an offering for caregivers in the future.
Colon Camp is built by and for the AYA colorectal cancer community, and only accepted campers and staff are allowed to attend. Pets are not allowed.
Colon Camp is in the Cleveland, OH area, approximately 1 hour away from the airport. Travel to and from camp facilities from the Cleveland Hopkins airport will be handled by us – you just need to get to the airport!
Absolutely. The Cleveland Clinic has an AYA cancer clinic, and there are smaller hospitals with emergency departments closer to the camp facilities. If you need medical attention, you will get it.
Yes. As long as you fall within the age group and have not attended in the past, please apply!

Colon Camp is designed to help you identify and heal from the trauma of cancer. Part of that healing may involve sharing your story with fellow campers, however this event is not designed to help you share your story. (If you’re ready for that, check out the Fight CRC Ambassador program.) This event is designed to help provide health and wellness opportunities that enable you to heal.

Colon Camp is transitioning to focus on health and wellness. We will not have the modeling experience that previous camps have offered. We will have photo and video opportunities, however the camp’s focus is on healing versus storytelling. We do plan to release a calendar in 2026 that will raise awareness of colorectal cancer in young adults and may include camper stories. However, that is not the focus of camp.
Colon Camp is currently limited to 12 attendees. We have hopes to grow this program in the future; please apply to join the wait list if you’re interested.

Follow @ColonClub on Instagram and join the Young Survivor Support group in our Community of Champions app. We have also built partnerships with groups like First Descents, Stupid Cancer, Elephants & Tea, and others who provide similar experiences. We will notify you about these opportunities. We also hope you’ll consider joining us for Call-on Congress or Climb for a Cure. While these are not “camp” events, they will introduce you to others in the community, many who have faced colorectal cancer way too young.

Community Voices
After giving birth to her second son, Kaitlin (@kaitlinv1224) noticed she was going to the bathroom more often. When she saw a GI doctor at 32, she was denied a colonoscopy—told she was 'too young' and had no family history. The doctor advised her to reduce her stress. But Kaitlin didn't ignore her body.

Four years later, while pregnant with her daughter, Kaitlin's symptoms got worse. This time, she pushed for a colonoscopy. After the procedure, the doctor told her he was glad she advocated for herself—Kaitlin was diagnosed with stage III rectal cancer.

Kaitlin's advice? 'Speak up for yourself. You know your body better than anyone else.'
If Kaitlin's story resonates with you, share your own to offer hope and education to others in the fight. 💙
Say hello to our 2026 Ambassador Class! 👋🥳

This year, we've selected five teams. These are survivors, caregivers, and loved ones who've faced #colorectalcancer side by side. Together, they'll raise awareness, share their stories, advocate for change, and take action. 

We're proud to welcome this powerful group. Join us in giving them a warm welcome! 💙
Thank you, Ron and Martha Doornink, for your unwavering advocacy and incredible support in making this groundbreaking partnership a reality.💙 

Your belief in the power of innovation and your commitment to advancing personalized treatments for colorectal cancer have played a vital role in launching this transformative study. With your help, we’re one step closer to ensuring patients have access to more effective, individualized care.

To learn more about this transformative study in colorectal cancer care, visit the link in our bio.
We need your help protecting the CDC Division of Cancer Prevention and Control.

The President's proposed budget would eliminate this entire division, wiping out programs that are vital to the #colorectalcancer community.

That means the end of:
📉 The Colorectal Cancer Control Program, which helps people in underserved areas get screened between ages 45–75.

📊 The National Program of Cancer Registries, which tracks CRC cases and trends—including early-age onset.

This data helps track the rise of early-onset CRC and added key evidence to lower the screening age from 50 to 45.

Losing these programs would be a huge setback, not just for the CRC community, but for the entire cancer community.

Thank you to everyone who filled out our action alert. Now we need you to take it a step further:

📞 Call your members of Congress.
📲 Share this post.
🗣️ Speak up and make it clear that these programs matter, and they must be protected.

Take action now using the link in bio.
BIG NEWS! We’re so excited to be a part of this brand new study that could change how #colorectalcancer is treated.
 
In partnership with First Ascent Biomedical, we’re backing research that helps doctors figure out which treatments your tumor may respond to, BEFORE you even start them. It’s called functional precision medicine, and it’s all about faster, more personalized care.
 
Here’s how it works: A sample of living tumor cells is tested against hundreds of FDA-approved cancer drugs to see what actually works. Then AI steps in—combining drug response, genetic data, and tumor mapping to identify weaknesses and recommend a treatment plan tailored to you.
 
It could lead to fewer side effects, lower costs, and treatment that actually works. We’re honored to support First Ascent in this groundbreaking work and look forward to advancing care through this promising research. 

Learn more by clicking the link in bio!
Happy National #BestFriendsDay! 💙 Jessica met two of her closest friends—Daad and Norma—through #FightCRC meetups.

After a #colorectalcancer diagnosis, it can be hard to find people who truly understand. That's one reason we created the Community of Champions—a space to connect, share, and support one another in all parts of the journey.

Tag your bestie and tell us why you're grateful for them! 👇
@jayrayoflight @daad_ag4 
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#BestFriends #Besties #Friendship #Cancer #CancerSurvivor #ColonCancer #RectalCancer #Support
✋ Think you might qualify for a #clinicaltrial? Save this video! These are your next steps.

Feeling overwhelmed or unsure about clinical trials? You're not alone — drop your questions in the comments and let's talk it out together. 
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#EOCRC #ColonCancer #RectalCancer #Trials #ColorectalCancer #Treatment #Oncology #Cancer #CancerSurvivor
As the Supreme Court prepares their decision that could reshape the future of no-cost preventive services in the U.S., 38 leading patient advocacy groups and healthcare organizations stand united in urging the Court to uphold these critical protections, warning that eliminating them would have devastating consequences for access to colorectal cancer and other crucial screenings, and the health of millions of Americans. 

This potential rollback of guaranteed, no-cost access to preventive services threatens to undermine the progress we have made in increasing colorectal cancer screening rates and reducing colorectal cancer incidence and mortality, representing a serious setback for public health. 
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@aliveandkickn
@americancancersociety 
@acscan 
@amergastroassn 
@asgeendoscopy 
@fascrs 
@amsurg_asc 
@blackingastro 
@bigmikesbottomline 
@cacolorectalcancercoalition 
@cheekycharity 
@cga_igc 
@coloncancercoalition 
@coloncancerpreventionproject 
@colonstars 
@colorectalcanceralliance 
@exactsciences 
@fightcrc 
@facingourrisk 
@freenome_cancerscreening 
@geneoscopy 
@ga.core 
@_theghf 
@guardanthealth 
@hittingcancerbelowthebelt 
@manuptocancer1 
@nevadacancercoalition 
@paltownfoundation 
@preventcancer
@wunderglo