It has been the ultimate experience for campers at Chai Lifeline’s Camp Simcha, currently in the midst of its fourth session of the summer. 450 campers from all backgrounds, locations and walks of life have taken part in Camp Simcha’s programming over the summer and 120 boys are currently enjoying an all expenses paid, welcome respite from life with cancer, taking part in incredible activities including luxury car rides, helicopter tours, candle making, woodworking, visits to the shooting range and trips down the Delaware. Special guests in this final session have included Ohad, Eighth Day, Uncle Moishy, politicians and sports stars, who have all been flocking to the Glen Spey campus, but possibly the most impactful moments came on Wednesday with Rav Elya Brudny paying a two hour visit to Camp Simcha.

Rabbi Brudny connected immediately with campers, speaking with some of the children and giving out brachos. Camp Simcha’s trademark lunchtime ruach was all the more special as Rabbi Brudny danced with campers.

“His visit gave so much to our campers,” said head counselor Ari Dembitzer. “Kids both religious and non-religious were able to relate to him.”

Rabbi Brudny’s visit was particularly meaningful to the Camp Simcha staff members who were honored with special remarks from Rav Elya, praising their dedication and selflessness, and describing the camp as a “mikdash me’at.”

“To hear someone of his stature say that he was proud of them for all that they are doing and to make them feel like they are doing something really special gave our staff a lot of chizuk,” observed Dembitzer.

Rabbi Eytan Feiner, morah d’asra at Camp Simcha, said that it was a both a zechus and a kavod to be able to host Rabbi Brudny.

“His warmth, genuine love, care and concern were palpable and greatly appreciated by each and every person with whom he came into contact,” said Rabbi Feiner. “His visit changed the ambiance of Camp Simcha which was greatly enhanced by the presence of a true adam gadol.”

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)