The Camp That Changed Everything

Recovery from a burn injury isn’t linear. Sometimes, the journey even comes full circle.

That’s exactly the case for Rebecca Riffel.

A Life-changing Injury – and an Unexpected Invitation

As a middle schooler, Becca’s pajamas caught on fire from a nearby candle, leaving her with third-degree burns on 17% of her body. During her recovery, Becca was understandably skeptical when an Arizona Burn Foundation staff member visited her hospital room to talk about Camp Courage. Summer camp already felt “not cool,” and the thought of attending while fully bandaged from burns and skin grafts only added to her hesitation.

“As reluctant as I was to go, I ended up being very grateful that I did,” Becca said. “Camp Courage and the people there truly changed my life and my perspective for the better.”

Reconnecting Years Later

As life moved on, Becca eventually lost touch with ABF. It wasn’t until years later, when she was the owner of Main Stage in Cottonwood, that the connection resurfaced. A local motorcycle group, Wind and Fire, along with area business owner Mitch Levy, approached Becca about hosting a fundraiser for Camp Courage—unaware that she herself had once been a camper.

“I jumped at the chance to get involved and give back to the organization that helped me so much as a kid,” Becca said.

Five Years of Giving Back

Now, five years after that first event—and despite recently selling the restaurant—Main Stage is hosting its 5th annual Live with Courage fundraiser on February 22 in support of Camp Courage. Becca is quick to credit the partners who make the event possible, including Law Tigers, the Sisterhood Connection, Yavapai Broadcasting, and many others. The event features live music, raffle prizes, local vendors, and a shared commitment to the burn community.

Each year, on the final day of Camp Courage, Main Stage and its partners present a check to campers and staff—an enduring reminder that the burn community stands together, and that the Arizona Burn Foundation remains a constant presence through every stage of healing.

Join us at Main Stage on February 22 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. for the 5th annual Live with Courage fundraiser – and help support Camp Courage. Funds raised through Live with Courage help ensure that burn survivors can attend Camp Courage at no cost—surrounded by peers who understand their journey.