a place of beautiful moments

By Lonia Orlando, Dynamo Camp Alumna

In November 2010, I was diagnosed with pericarditis, an inflammation of the sac that surrounds the heart. It was believed to have been caused by a simple cold, but alas, it was not. It was merely a symptom of something more that was developing in my body - Hodgkin's lymphoma. I had just turned 15, and I did not know what I was going to face. That next year would unexpectedly change my life, my body and my soul, but also allow me to see reality with different eyes.

During my first cycle of chemotherapy, I lost my long, thick and curly hair, along with my hope. My treatments presented daily struggles, and I desperately needed a break and a chance to find some peace. I wanted to fight for myself, for my family and for all those who loved me.

It was during my time in the hospital that I learned about Dynamo Camp. My experience at camp made me understand the true value of life and how beautiful it is. I realized how important it is to accept life as it comes and see the bright side in every negative situation. How do I define Dynamo Camp? To me, it is a place where you do not need to dream because everything is perfect. It is a "small world by itself," and provided an oasis from my illness, and the peace that I really needed. In 2011, shortly after the end of my chemotherapy, and again in 2013, I spent many wonderful days in this place of beautiful moments. At Dynamo Camp, nothing is impossible, because the whole context – the location and the new people you meet – makes you believe you can do anything. That’s how I felt.

Dynamo Camp gave me the opportunity to express this passion to all of Italy during a national radio and TV broadcast with Deejay Chiama Italia. It was a new experience for me, but one that I faced with courage and to the best of my ability – thanks to the inspiration of camp. Soon, I’m planning to return to Dynamo Camp again, but this time as a volunteer, to help others like me know that anything is possible.

Watch a video of Lonia speaking about her experience at Dynamo Camp.

To learn more about the amazing programs at Dynamo Camp, including Radio Dynamo and the Art factory, please visit their website.