The name
(in English 'Friend Camp') reflects the broadest objective
of diabetes camps: to bring together children and adolescents
with diabetes to have fun and make friends in a happy, safe,
supportive educational environment. It takes its inspiration
from the Mexican Campo Amigo , organized by former
President of the International Diabetes Federation, Maria de
Alva.
Among the specific aims of Campo Amigo is the development of
a lasting community, with the camp as the meeting point. Children,
adolescents, and their families are united in one large group
at camp. Together, they learn about diabetes management and
their health, while supporting their peers and looking up to
their older role models. They alternate between diabetes education/dynamic
diabetes activities, arts and crafts, and sports.
Campo Amigo gives hope and much needed support to children
living with diabetes. It shows campers that diabetes is manageable,
and with the proper education and access to the necessary diabetes
resources, they can lead healthy and enriching lives.
Due to a lack of diabetes awareness, many youth growing up
in Latin America feel alienated from their peers. They are unable
to participate in school and extra-curricular activities because
their parents, teachers, and doctors fear it is detrimental
to their health. Camp Amigo emphasizes each child's ability
to live a normal life and reminds them that diabetes is just
one aspect of their lives.
About
AYUDA
