Larry Hauser reflects on his camp experience and the mission of the American Diabetes Association in June 29th's "In the Know."
As we each move through our day-to-day responsibilities, we sometimes forget about the many ways that our work is truly benefiting people with diabetes. I was reminded of this first hand when I had the chance to visit one of our oldest and largest Association Diabetes Camps last week—Camp Midicha in Fenton, MI (in the Michigan/NW Ohio chapter).
This was my first camp visit and it came about as part of my participation in the Southeast Michigan Community Leadership Board meeting. Spending time with more than 225 kids was a moving and eye-opening experience. It's clear to me that one of the greatest things about Diabetes Camp is that there is constant education without the campers even realizing it. Kids at our camps are learning a sense of independence and building confidence in their ability to live successfully with diabetes. For some, it means their first insulin shot without the helping hand of their Mom or Dad. For others, this is the first time they are changing their insulin pump site or pricking their own finger.
Another important aspect of Diabetes Camp is the camaraderie that develops among the campers. I was able to sense the joy many of these children were experiencing because they were in an environment with other children who face the same health-related issues they deal with every day. Clearly, facing these challenges becomes a bit easier when we know we are not alone. In fact, several of the young campers provided moving testimonials to me and the Board members about the strong friendships and support that came from their camp experience and continues long after camp has ended.
I got to see what is affectionately referred to as the "Pump Dump Station," where campers place their insulin pumps in a neatly organized shelving system before they go swimming. I was also impressed with the regular safety checks that went off like clockwork once the children took to the water. Despite the concern for health and safety, it was great to see that fun was never sacrificed. I also toured the Camp Health Center where I was wowed by the meticulous organization clearly designed to cover every detail of each camper's health and safety while they are with us. I would have felt completely comfortable having my own two children participate in one of our Diabetes Camps when they were this age.
Camp Midicha is just one of many of our camps that are now underway. This year we are providing 40 camps with 50 sessions in 25 states and serving 5,500 type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes campers. Having seen this group of kids and all that they take away from their time with us, I am even more proud of our camp legacy that dates back to 1940 and the positive impact that we are making on the lives of these children and their families. It's a mission moment that will not be forgotten by me, our campers or volunteers anytime soon. A special thanks to the Volunteer Committee Chair, Dr. Lowell Schmeltz, Debbie O'Leary, Senior Executive Director, Michigan/NW Ohio, and Stephanie Camalo, Director, Mission Delivery, for their hospitality!
As we each move through our day-to-day responsibilities, we sometimes forget about the many ways that our work is truly benefiting people with diabetes. I was reminded of this first hand when I had the chance to visit one of our oldest and largest Association Diabetes Camps last week—Camp Midicha in Fenton, MI (in the Michigan/NW Ohio chapter).
This was my first camp visit and it came about as part of my participation in the Southeast Michigan Community Leadership Board meeting. Spending time with more than 225 kids was a moving and eye-opening experience. It's clear to me that one of the greatest things about Diabetes Camp is that there is constant education without the campers even realizing it. Kids at our camps are learning a sense of independence and building confidence in their ability to live successfully with diabetes. For some, it means their first insulin shot without the helping hand of their Mom or Dad. For others, this is the first time they are changing their insulin pump site or pricking their own finger.
Another important aspect of Diabetes Camp is the camaraderie that develops among the campers. I was able to sense the joy many of these children were experiencing because they were in an environment with other children who face the same health-related issues they deal with every day. Clearly, facing these challenges becomes a bit easier when we know we are not alone. In fact, several of the young campers provided moving testimonials to me and the Board members about the strong friendships and support that came from their camp experience and continues long after camp has ended.
I got to see what is affectionately referred to as the "Pump Dump Station," where campers place their insulin pumps in a neatly organized shelving system before they go swimming. I was also impressed with the regular safety checks that went off like clockwork once the children took to the water. Despite the concern for health and safety, it was great to see that fun was never sacrificed. I also toured the Camp Health Center where I was wowed by the meticulous organization clearly designed to cover every detail of each camper's health and safety while they are with us. I would have felt completely comfortable having my own two children participate in one of our Diabetes Camps when they were this age.
Camp Midicha is just one of many of our camps that are now underway. This year we are providing 40 camps with 50 sessions in 25 states and serving 5,500 type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes campers. Having seen this group of kids and all that they take away from their time with us, I am even more proud of our camp legacy that dates back to 1940 and the positive impact that we are making on the lives of these children and their families. It's a mission moment that will not be forgotten by me, our campers or volunteers anytime soon. A special thanks to the Volunteer Committee Chair, Dr. Lowell Schmeltz, Debbie O'Leary, Senior Executive Director, Michigan/NW Ohio, and Stephanie Camalo, Director, Mission Delivery, for their hospitality!
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