November is recognized as American Diabetes Month.
MD Logistics has been a long time sponsor of Camp John Warvel, which is hosted by the Indiana Chapter of the American Diabetes Association (ADA). To further support diabetes awareness, we’d like to share with you Caleb’s story.
When Caleb Emery of Indianapolis was diagnosed with diabetes at age 10, his mother, Amber, was determined to support him completely. Amber quickly learned to count carbs, give injections, and work his insulin pump. But one thing she couldn’t give him: Other kids with diabetes to hang out with.
So she registered Caleb at Camp John Warvel, a week long residential camp for children with diabetes.
Such an experience wouldn’t be possible without sponsors like MD Logistics in Indianapolis, says Jennifer Pferrer, executive director of the Indiana chapter of the ADA.
“Camp is expensive, but no child is ever turned away due to financial status,” Pferrer says. “Sponsors give valuable experiences to children who otherwise wouldn’t be able to attend.”
Besides raising money for kids like Caleb since 2006, MD Logistics employees also visit the camp to experience the activities firsthand.
“The ADA does a phenomenal job arranging volunteers and activities at the camp, so kids can be surrounded by friends they relate to and have fun with,” says Emilie Gerbers, marketing manager for MD Logistics. “Every year, we send a team out so we can experience the fun firsthand and see how the camp enriches and supports its campers.”
Now in its 58th year, Camp John Warvel teaches children with diabetes how to take care of the physical needs demanded by diabetes during everyday work and play.
“I can count carbs and check his blood sugar, but I don’t have diabetes so I can’t support him like kids with diabetes can,” Amber says. “I want him to spend time with his peers. I knew Camp John Warvel was the best way to support him emotionally.”
Immediately after Caleb’s trip, Amber saw the positive impact of his week of archery, drama, water activities, rock wall climbing, low and high ropes courses, and interaction with other kids.
“I saw a change as soon as he came back from camp,” Amber says. “I had my Caleb back, the confident Caleb who smiled and made people laugh.”
About Camp John Warvel
Camp John Warvel hosts children with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The week-long residential camp, held at Camp Crosley YMCA, includes 24-hour medical supervision while letting kids participate in water activities, sports, drama, crafts, rock wall climbing, low and high ropes courses, and archery. For more information, visit www.diabetes.org
