Diabetic children discuss their condition at summer camp

Over 60 children suffering from Type 1 diabetes gathered at Mount St Joseph for a five-day summer camp where they took part in workshops and put their questions to doctors.

The Maltese Diabetes Association, with the assistance of the Health Ministry, organised the annual summer event for its young members aged between five and 17.

HSBC, through its philanthropic activity HSBC Cares for Children Fund, were the main supporters of this year's camp which helped make the children's dream possible.

Children suffering from Type 1 diabetes have to take daily shots of insulin to control their blood sugar levels. It is also essential to constantly monitor their blood sugar levels by means of a blood glucose meter.

The camp gives the children the right opportunity to discuss their condition and any difficulties they encounter with their doctors, a spokesman said.

During the camp they also took part in workshops led by nursing officers and specialists. Every year there are children who learn how to self-inject themselves for the very first time following their weekly stay at this camp. "The fact that a child is successful in self-injecting is a breakthrough for both the parents and the child," association president Anna Zammit Mckeon said.

Besides the educational aspect of the camp, the children were treated to various recreational activities such as swimming, an outing to the Playmobil Fun Park, bowling and games.

The camp was supervised on a 24-hour basis by volunteers who spent a week with the children at the camp.