Above: Michaela 8, and Alexia 8 are all smiles at the camp.By Melissa Meehan
DEALING with diabetes can be a confronting task for many, especially those who are diagnosed at a young age.
But for 45 boys and girls aged between eight and nine years of age, a trip to East Warburton last week offered them the chance to meet others with diabetes.
Diabetes Camps Victoria runs outings for children with diabetes.
Camps are organised and run by a consortium and camp executive from Diabetes Australia, The Royal Children’s Hospital and Southern Health.
Four camps are held each year for children and adolescents aged between eight and 17 years, who have been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.
Arrabri Lodge provided the scene for fun and games over four days, the first time that many of the children had been away from home since being diagnosed.
Games and activities were organised over the four days, unfortunately wet weather forced most activities to be held inside.
Diabetes Camps Victoria coordinator Nicky Jessup said that 25 volunteers took part in the camps.
“We normally don’t have so many volunteers, but we’re always looking for more,” Ms Jessup said.
Ms Jessup said that the camps have proved to be one of the most effective ways to help young people living with diabetes to be independent and learn about their condition with the support of their peers and trained health professionals.
“To see the way kids develop independence through adventure during a week at the camp is incredibly rewarding,” Ms Jessup said.
To become a camp volunteer or for more information about Diabetes Camps go to www.diabetescamps.com.au.
