Children with diabetes have unique challenges, including in the classroom. Many schools do not have adequate healthcare services, which can lead to children with diabetes being excluded from school activities. A solution is attending a diabetes camp where they can learn how to manage their condition in a supportive environment.

Navigating School With Diabetes

I am a Type 1 diabetic. I’m 26 now. My elementary school had a full-time nurse, and she was there all day. I can’t imagine sending my child to a place where they don’t have a nurse all the time; that’s mind-boggling. I went to public schools in a small farming community.

Recognizing the importance of helping kids cope with diabetes and stress it causes, organizations like the Diabetes Education & Camping Association and the American Diabetes Association organize camps to help children manage their condition while enjoying outdoor activities.

This season marks the fourth year that Direct Relief has supported diabetes camps with donated medical items. To date, Direct Relief has supported 130 camps for kids with diabetes in 44 states and Puerto Rico with 388 shipments.

The shipments contain items such BD syringes and sharps containers, lancets, and over-the-counter items. In total, the wholesale value of the supplies exceeds $1.3 million, helping to offset costs and ensure that healthcare professionals have the resources they need to care for campers.

These camps allow children with diabetes to experience joys of childhood. It’s a privilege for Direct Relief to support them.