From blustery beginnings to lifelong impact
Parkland’s Camp I-Thonka-Chi celebrates decades of hope, healing
More than 30 years ago, on a cold and blustery March weekend in Meridian, Texas, nine children with burn injuries gathered at Camp John Marc for something that had never been done before at Parkland Health — a camp created just for them. There were chilly winds and uncertain moments, but there was also laughter, connection and something even more powerful: the beginning of a lifelong source of strength.
That vision belonged to Donna Crump, a physical therapy manager at Parkland, and a fellow colleague who shared her belief that young burn survivors deserved a place where they could simply be kids free from questions, stares or limitations.
They named it Camp I-Thonka-Chi, a Choctaw phrase meaning “a place that makes one strong or fearless, not afraid to face life.”
More than three decades later, that vision has grown into a weeklong summer camp held each June, welcoming hundreds of children over the years and creating a community rooted in healing, resilience and joy. This year’s camp runs from May 31 to June 5.
“Camp I-Thonka-Chi has always been about giving kids a space where they feel seen, supported and free,” said Crump. “It’s incredible to watch them build confidence, form friendships and realize they’re not alone.”
From those early days of bundling up against the cold, the camp has evolved into a vibrant summer experience under the warm Texas sun. Today, campers spend their days swimming, horseback riding, canoeing, creating art and sharing stories, all while building confidence and lifelong friendships.
But beyond the activities, Camp I-Thonka-Chi offers something deeper: connection.
“It’s a place where a kid can be a kid,” Crump said. “They don’t have to explain their scars or their story unless they want to. They’re surrounded by others who just understand.”
For many campers, that sense of belonging is life-changing.
“I was elated to go to camp, and camp did not disappoint,” recalled one former camper. “When you’re there, you see kids with burn injuries and realize you’re not alone. It’s cool not feeling like you’re separated from others because of your injuries.”
Behind the scenes, Crump has been the driving force ensuring the camp remains free of charge for families. In its early years, she worked tirelessly to recruit volunteers, many of them former burn patients, Parkland staff, therapists, EMS professionals and community members, all united by a shared passion for helping children heal.
That spirit of service continues today.
Each year, Parkland employees block their calendars to serve as counselors, returning not just out of duty, but out of love for the experience. Some volunteers have even traveled from as far as California to be part of the camp, drawn by its unique sense of camaraderie and purpose.
“Once you experience camp, it stays with you,” said one longtime volunteer. “It warms your heart and fills your soul in a way that’s hard to put into words.”
While Crump is quick to deflect recognition and credit the team around her, those who know Camp I-Thonka-Chi understand that her compassion, dedication and quiet leadership have been instrumental in its success.
“Donna’s vision created something truly special,” said Joseph Chang, MD, Parkland’s Chief Medical Officer. “She has helped build a legacy of care that extends far beyond our hospital walls.”
Today, Camp I-Thonka-Chi stands as a testament to what happens when compassion meets action, a place where children not only heal, but thrive.
And while the setting may have changed from cold spring winds to sunny summer skies, one thing remains constant: the smiles.
For more information on Camp I-Thonka-Chi or to make a donation to Parkland’s burn center, please visit www.parklandhealthfoundation.org.
For more information on services available at Parkland, please visit www.parklandhealth.org.
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