Thursday, July 11th saw the opening of this year’s diabetes youth camp — at the Guishard’s Technical Center Conference Room —in honour of the late Nurse Lynette Rogers. Nurse Lynette was the first President of the Anguilla Diabetes Association and served in that position for some twelve years.
A prayer for the camp’s opening and operation was offered by Pastor Philip Gumbs. The camp, which is geared particularly towards addressing the diabetic needs of young people is now in its fifth year.
In addressing the gathering, Ms. Sherry-Ann Roberts, Secretary of the Association commented: “These diabetes camps are to build safe environments around youth so they can learn to independently manage their diabetes, amongst their peers and dedicated professionals, in an atmosphere of excitement and adventure.
“At these two-day sessions, children will participate in recreational activities while developing independence and confidence in caring for their diabetes. The diabetes education sessions teach participants about nutrition, exercise, insulin, and highs and lows. Testing blood sugar is of great importance, and we teach youth to deal with their disease physiologically.”
Ms. Roberts emphasized that the camp was designed to assist both youth living with the disease and those who are at risk of contracting type-two diabetes. She said that the Association believes that every affected child should have a life-changing experience at the diabetes camp.
On behalf of the Ministry of Health and Social Development, Health Planner, Ms. Rochelle Rogers, stated: “The efforts of this Diabetes Camp aim at providing the information and skills needed for coping with diabetes on a daily basis. This camp is one of the best community activities for meeting the challenges of diabetes.
“I challenge those who attend these sessions to be best fighters against diabetes. I challenge you to learn from each other about your own experiences. I challenge you to fully participate in all of the activities of this camp. I challenge you to use the information you gather here in your daily lives, and I challenge you to have fun while you are here.”
The camp featured various diabetes lectures and fun-filled activities which were facilitated by Nurse Magdelena Jean-Lois; Nutritionist, Vernice Battick; and former President, Nurse Dana Ruan.
A visit was made to the Dialysis Unit at the Princess Alexandra Hospital, as well as one to the Anguilla Vision Center where participants’ eyes were examined free of cost by ophthalmologist, Dr. Saras.
Mrs Dana Ruan
In addition, the camp attendees enjoyed sporting activities and exercises conducted by members of the Department of Sports. They were also intrigued by participating in face painting activities, facilitated by Mr. Daryl Ruan, himself a diabetic. All the youth who attended the camp were quite interactive. And the camp was hailed as a great success.
Staff Reporter, James R. Harrigan
