The diabetes camp experience of adolescents with type 1 diabetes

ABSTRACT

@#<p style="text-align justify;">Diabetes (DM) camps were established as an intervention for children with Type 1 diabetes to promote self-care and coping with the rigors of its management. Previous studies found camps to be significant to children with chronic illness but needs continued exploration. Using phenomenology, this study aimed to contribute to the effort of determining the impact of DM camps on adolescents with Type 1 diabetes. Data was gathered from 7 purposively selected participants and 1 FGD. Analysis was done to deduce essence of the experience and 9 themes emerged from the accounts of the participants. This includes missing home, camp acclimation, discovering control of diabetes, life changing experience, acceptance of having diabetes, boosting self-efficacy, developing camaraderie. I am like any other kid and camp as refuge. The themes describe the camp experience of adolescents with type 1 diabetes, its impact and recommendations for possible enhancement of camp programs. Learning about diabetes and its management were among the experiences gained. As adolescents they went through the course of discovering themselves, building relationships and attaining some sense of independence.</p>