Ministry of Social Development
The second annual Diabetes Youth Camp, organized by the Anguilla Diabetes Association, was held on July 17th and July 18th.The participants were children who are diagnosed with diabetes, as well as children who have a close relative diagnosed with diabetes.
The main focus of the camp was learning about diabetes in a fun filled atmosphere while sharing and supporting each other.
Sessions on topics such as Nutrition and Diabetes, Psychological Support with Diabetes, Diabetes and Me and Exercise were conducted. Three young adults diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, as well as a parent, gave testimonies about their experiences on living well with diabetes. All of these sessions were very interactive and informative.
A field trip to Sensational Flavours Farm reinforced the importance of growing and eating fresh, locally grown healthy foods. The participants, knowledge of a variety of fruit trees, vegetables, herbs and indigenous plants was tested by the proprietor, Salih Abdur Raheem. Some of them enthusiastically demonstrated their ability to identify the plants as well as their uses. The second part of the field trip was spent at Magic City where they totally enjoyed themselves, having fun, while getting the exercise which is an integral part of diabetes management.
During the closing ceremony each participant made a presentation about his/her camp experience. The participants were given gifts and certificates of attendance.
The Anguilla Diabetes Association would like to thank the Ministry of Social Development, Chronic Disease Unit, Larry’s Catering, D-3 Enterprises, NCDS, Scouts and Guides Association, the Department of Education for providing transportation, Sensational Flavours, Magic City, Mrs Vernice Battick, Ms Monique Rey, and the parents of the participants for their invaluable support in making the camp possible.
