A Great Getaway

Imagine a camp where all the campers, many of the counselors, and maybe even some of the doctors and nurses have diabetes. These are summer camps geared specifically for kids with diabetes. Most diabetes camps offer the same fun stuff as other summer camps — like hiking, canoeing, volleyball, archery, and swimming — but they also offer a chance to learn about diabetes and see how other kids manage it.

It's also a great place to make new friends with diabetes!

Pick any three diabetes camps, and they're likely to be as varied as any three non-diabetes camps—and just as action-packed too.

Can kids at diabetes camps do all the same activities other kids do? Canoe down wilderness streams? Backpack on rough mountain trails? Compete in team sports? You bet! In fact, these activities help keep blood sugar under control and keep you healthy and energetic. Besides, they're fun! Here's a sneak preview...

Where to Find a Camp For info, try the Diabetes Camping Association or the Camps section at the Children With Diabetes Web site. Of course, you can also ask the nurses and doctors who help take care of you, as well as your local JDRF chapter.

A former camper has tips for getting the most from diabtes camp, and two diabetes experts/camp staffers share some hiking and camping smarts.

Happy camping!