As a mom, I have to say that the single most effective treatment for my son has been going to Camp Gut Busters in Livermore, California each summer. This FREE week long experience has changed his life completely. While the CCFA camp in Southern California is awesome, this one is closer to home in Northern California. It is staffed by GI pediatric medical experts and others knowledgeable and experienced in this field. For more info go to ibdcamp.org. Seriously, moms, camp is the answer!
Reply posted for jeffsmom.
Camp enables the kids to be with other kids who have their same struggles with disease. They often realize they are in better shape than some which is empowering. Camp Gut Busters in Northern California is staffed by the head of pediatric GI at UCSF as well as 3-4 nurse practitioners in that department. Meds are distributed by these professionals. Most of the counselors have IBD or live with someone who does. Parents do not go to camp, cell phones are discouraged. No one sits around being ill...everyone has fun on the lake, in the pool, playing games, arts & crafts, skits, etc.; regular camp activities. Dietary restrictions are catered to, no one has to ask at each meal for something uniqe or special. For one week a kid with IBD can be just a kid having fun! Check out the website at www.ibdcamp.org. On the contact page, you can feel free to contact any of the camp personnel. BTW, camp is free of charge. Kids build networks of support through the adults and campers they meet at camp. The healing power of familiarity and understanding is unbelieveable! So...if a camper has an "accident" or feels sick or can't eat at the moment, everyone gets it! Everyone laughs off situations others might find distatsetful to discuss. It's a remarkable experience. My advice is to try it.
Reply posted for aloinca.
Please, please tell me why this has helped so much. I can't imagine this one particular child (he has three brothers) going off with people he doesn't know for a week. Did you have a problem with that? Do parents go? The camp itself sounds terrific.
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