Cat Camp brings children with diabetes together

For children living with Type 1 diabetes, summer camp can offer more than a week of fun. It can offer a place where no child feels like they’re the only one having diabetes devices, blood sugar checks, insulin dosing and conversations about food be a part of their everyday life.

This summer, Cat Camp welcomed 27 campers from 11 counties across Ohio and West Virginia to Ohio University for a week of diabetes education, connection and classic camp activities. The camp was sponsored by the Ohio University Diabetes Institute and designed to give children with type 1 diabetes a supportive space to learn, have fun and build friendships with peers who understand their experiences.

Held June 8-12, Cat Camp included a wide range of activities across campus, including swimming, team games, tie dye, ziplining, goat yoga, a talent show and daily opportunities for campers to ask questions and connect with members of the care team. A highlight of the week included a visit from Jimmy and Robin Burrow, who shared their “Healthy Body Healthy Mind” presentation, which focuses on Joe Burrow’s healthy habits like sleep and exercise, as part of the week’s activities.

The care team, including nursing staff, a physician and diabetes educators, helped monitor campers’ blood sugar levels and support diabetes management throughout the day. That medical support gave parents peace of mind while allowing campers to participate fully in camp activities. Ohio University medical and health professions students also volunteered as camp counselors, helping lead activities and supporting campers throughout the week.

While the schedule was full of activities, feedback from families showed that one of the most meaningful parts of camp was the sense of community it created.

One parent shared that their child loved meeting kids her age “who are going through the same thing she is.” 

In addition to fun and friendship, Cat Camp gave children opportunities to build confidence in managing diabetes in a supportive environment. Campers participated in food-related learning, “Ask Away” sessions and informal conversations with care team members throughout the week. These activities helped normalize diabetes care while allowing children to ask questions, learn from others and practice independence in age-appropriate ways.

The camp also reflected the Diabetes Institute’s broader mission to support people with diabetes and their families through education, research, community engagement and clinical collaboration. 

In addition to the Diabetes Institute, Cat Camp was made possible through support from generous community sponsors including OhioHealth, Athens County Foundation, Camp Angels, Community Foundation for Perry County, Home Turf Clothing, Athens Lions Club, Grand Council of Royal & Select Masons, Shrivers Pharmacy & Wellness, and Pleasantville La Sertoma.