Proof of What We’ve Always Known: Sunrise Changes Lives

A first-of-its-kind independent research study conducted by Tel Aviv University School of Public Health shows that Sunrise Day Camps build resilience, ease stress, and restore joy for children with cancer and their siblings.

For nearly 20 years, we’ve seen the magic of Sunrise in countless stories from children and families. In 2024, we partnered with Tel Aviv University School of Public Health to conduct the first formal, IRB-approved study of our programs. More than 340 campers across five Sunrise Day Camps participated, and the results exceeded expectations.

Key Findings Reveal the SUNRISE Effect

Self-Esteem grew as campers discovered confidence that continued to rise even after camp..

Uplifted Quality of Life — children reported more happiness, brighter moods, and greater overall well-being.

Nurtured sibling relationships — camp eased tensions and built stronger family bonds.

Resilience soared, with children leaving camp emotionally stronger and better able to handle life’s challenges.

Illness management improved, helping diagnosed campers better understand and cope with their condition.

Stress and anxiety dropped, with children experiencing significant emotional relief — ending camp less anxious than even their healthy siblings.

Emotional well-being lasted well beyond the summer. Resilience gains held 12 weeks after camp, and repeat campers showed the strongest growth over time.

Together, these outcomes define the SUNRISE Effect: a season of healing that strengthens children far beyond the summer.

Why It Matters

The research team called it ‘a rare and significant outcome’—long-term resilience gains that almost never appear in short-term interventions. This study proves that Sunrise is not just a camp; it is a life-changing intervention for families navigating pediatric cancer.

Read the full synopsis of the Tel Aviv University School of Public Health study and see how Sunrise Day Camps deliver measurable, lasting impact.