The Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta is opening a camp for children who have a parent suffering from cancer.The Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta is opening a camp for children who have a parent suffering from cancer. (CBC)

A new Alberta summer camp designed for children who have parents with cancer is the first of its kind in Canada.

SunHaven is a five-day summer camp program run by Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta.

The camp is designed to help children between the ages of seven and 15 handle the stress and questions associated with a parent fighting cancer.

Linda Weidmann, who is battling breast cancer, said her illness has forced her two small children to grow up suddenly in order deal with the stress of being her caregiver.

"They should grow old and learn as they go. Not learn all in one day, one fell swoop," she said.

SunHaven's 2010 camp schedule:

· August 2-6

· August 9-13

· August 6-20 (bereavement camp)

Children often feel left out when a parent is forced to deal with cancer, according to the foundation.

The camp's mission is to give children a week-long break from heavy responsibilities and let kids be kids.

SunHaven offers programs throughout the week aimed at helping children build self-confidence and develop new friendships with others dealing with a sick parent.

The camp is located at the foundation's Camp Kindle, which is about 80 kilometres northwest of Calgary.