What is Camp U.O.T.S.?
Camp U.O.T.S. is an annual, sleep-away summer camp for children with cancer and blood disorders who are treated at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital (NCH) in Miami, FL. The camp was founded in 1991 through the support of the United Order of True Sisters (U.O.T.S.), a national philanthropy dedicated to raising money for cancer research and providing support to cancer patients. The camp also serves as a support group for the children, many of whom are receiving or have completed treatment.
Our mission is to provide pediatric cancer patients with the opportunity to participate in a free and medically-sound summer camp that fosters joy, friendship, and memories that will last a lifetime. Thanks to the vision and generosity of the late Eve Ruthfield (President of the local chapter of U.O.T.S. - Miami #43), the efforts of dedicated volunteers, and contributions from donors, our camp has been serving children with cancer for more than 30 years!
Dr. Athena Pefkarou
Camp Director
Dr. Pefkarou is a Pediatric Hematologist-Oncologist at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital (NCH) in Miami, FL, and the Director of Camp U.O.T.S. Through her leadership and dedication, our camp continues to grow in scope and impact. She coordinates planning meetings, trains volunteers, organizes event logistics, and fosters partnerships with community organizations and individual supporters. “Dr. P”, as she is affectionately known, is the primary physician for many of our patients, and is celebrated among campers and counselors alike as a second mother.
Dr. Pefkarou received her medical degree from the University College Hospital at London University in London, England. She completed her residency in pediatrics at Mercy Hospital in Baltimore and a fellowship in Pediatric Hematology-Oncology at NCH. Dr. Pefkarou is board certified in Pediatrics and Pediatric Hematology-Oncology.
Meet Our Board of Directors
Michael Thomas, Treasurer & Director
Dr. Archie Cubarrubia, Director
Lana Chehabeddine, Director
Dr. Athena Pefkarou, Camp Director
Caleb Gonzalez, Director
Lambros Katsoufis, Secretary & Director
T.J. Morales, Vice President & Director
Fern Thomas, President & Director