The weather is getting warm (even hot), school is finishing up and summer fun is headed your way.
There’s so much to look forward to—from swimming and playing sports to seeing friends and playing outside. For many kids, it’s also a time for one of summer’s greatest adventures—heading off to camp!
If you have a bleeding disorder, going to camp can be exciting and fun. You’ll meet new friends, try new things and learn new ways to take care of your bleeding disorder from experienced counselors.
[Steps for Living: Consider the Whole Child]
Camp Days
Have you ever shot a bow and arrow in an archery class? Acted out a play? Hiked in the woods? Depending on what your camp offers, you could:
Swim in the pool or lake
Try new strokes without putting pressure on joints and muscles.
Sail, kayak or canoe
Learn how to steer a canoe, guide a sailboat and keep a kayak afloat.
Fish
Set your lure and reel in a big catch.
Take drama or dance
Put on a show or dance recital for your friends and counselors.
Go on a nature walk
Find out which animals and plants live in the area around your campsite.
Chat around the campfire
Sit around the campfire with other campers and counselors and tell stories.
Life Lessons
Playing sports and meeting new friends are fun and exciting parts of being at camp. Going to camp might even be your first time around other kids and adults who have bleeding disorders—just like you. These new friends can make it easier for you to talk about your bleeding disorder—from how you feel about having it to some easy tips for staying healthy.
It can also be a great time to learn more about your bleeding disorder. Knowing how to self-infuse is a big part of going to camp—you might even get an award for it! Don’t worry—no one will force you to learn. But understanding how to treat yourself and being independent may help you feel better and more confident about having a bleeding disorder.
Want to learn more about going to camp? Ask your parents or your hemophilia treatment center for more information. You can also find your local camp on the NHF Web site in the Camp Directory or by contacting HANDI at 800.42.HANDI.
What to Pack
Be sure to include these items in your bag when heading off to camp:
- Factor
- Infusion supplies
- Medical form
- Medical alert identification
- Infusion log