Meet Camper Keenan
For five years, Keenan has made the trip from Elizabeth, Colorado to Roundup River Ranch. What first began as something his parents signed him up for when he was younger has now become a place he returns to with confidence and gratitude.
Keenan lives with diabetes, which is why his mom first applied for him to come to camp. At home, he’s used to being homeschooled, working out, and spending time on his own. Camp is different.
“I love talking to people,” he said with a grin. “It’s just my favorite thing to do.”
At Roundup River Ranch, there are “so many people to talk to,” and that simple joy has become one of Keenan’s favorite parts of the week. Being surrounded by other kids who understand diabetes makes a difference, too.
“Being around other people with diabetes and all that stuff, it feels the same,” he explained. “It’s good.”
In a place where everyone shares some version of a medical journey, Keenan doesn’t have to explain himself. He can just be a kid.
The camp theme in 2025 was “You Belong Here,” and when asked what that means to him, Keenan put it simply: “you’re meant to be here.”
From the bus ride into the mountains to spotting familiar counselors waiting to welcome him back, he said, “It’s just everything.”
Over time, camp has helped him grow in quiet but meaningful ways.
“I just feel really welcome,” he said. “It makes me want to help other people at home.”
Whether he’s offering encouragement to another camper or jumping into activities with enthusiasm, Keenan leads with kindness – something he says his counselors model well. When it comes to activities, fishing tops the list.
“I never do it,” he said, laughing. “So it’s like the first time doing things. Catching a fish – it’s just so great.”
He also loves the dancing, the equestrian rides, and all the moments that feel, in his words, “Awesome… fantastic… fun.”
Keenan admits he was nervous the first time he came.
“I didn’t really want to go,” he shared honestly.
But now, his advice to any campers feeling unsure is, “You’ll be happy you went. I went, and I’m having a great time.”
At Roundup River Ranch, Keenan has found more than activities and adventure. He’s found connection, confidence, and a place where he feels he belongs.
