Medically Supervised Asthma Camp Gives Kids a Chance to Experience Summer Safely

Chronic conditions such as asthma don’t have to prevent children from participating in summer camp, thanks to Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital’s asthma camp. Located at Camp Tall Turf in Walkerville, Michigan, the camp gives children with the chronic lung condition a chance to be a kid without their parents worrying about their medical care.

Twelve-year-old Brenden Jennings of Sand Lake will return to camp this summer after two previous experiences. Asthma impacts Brenden’s daily routine, so his mom is thankful for the medically supervised camp.

“Asthma camp provides me a sense of security,” said Danielle Jennings. “Knowing a doctor is always available is very important for Brenden to enjoy the pleasures of summer camp while being safe.”

The medical team calls parents with updates if health concerns develop. Otherwise the families of the campers enjoy a week-long break from the daily routine of medicines, maintaining journals, doctor appointments and watching for signs of an asthma attack.

The camp is made possible with support from the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Foundation.

“Asthma camp at Camp Tall Turf is the only overnight summer camp experience many asthmatic children are able to have, as their condition needs regular monitoring,” said John Schuen, MD, division chief, pediatric pulmonary and sleep medicine, Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital and Spectrum Health Medical Group. “The camp provides children a typical camp experience with medical supervision.”

Asthma camp runs from June 27 through July 1, with June 10 the deadline for registration. The cost is $35 per child. Visit helendevoschildrens.org/asthmacamp for registration details.

Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, a member of Spectrum Health, is a Grand Rapids-based hospital serving children throughout Michigan. A teaching hospital, it includes nearly 200 pediatric physicians with training in providing medical and surgical care to children in more than 40 pediatric specialties. Visit helendevoschildrens.org to learn more.