Diabetes camping has been a regular feature at the YMCA Camp Classen, near Davis, Oklahoma, since 1982. Camp Endres, the name that was established in 2000, in honor of Robert Endres, M.D., who first
introduced the Oklahoma diabetes camping program during the early 1970s. This resident camping experience, exclusively for youth with diabetes, is unique in Oklahoma. While helping kids and teens have fun in a safe setting, a dedicated team of health professionals provide valuable assistance and instruction to meet individual needs.

For the past two years INTEGRIS Health has sponsored several nurses to attend this camp. This year Melanie Thorne, RN from Jim Thorpe Rehab and Dena Withrow, RN from Surgery attended the Camp.

The medical team staff is directly responsible for the routine and diabetes care of the campers assigned to them. The team staff meets with campers a minimum of four times per day, during meals and before bed. Because meals are served family style by cabin groups, campers have the opportunity to serve themselves and give insulin accordingly based on the amount of carbohydrate intake from the meal. This structure is an optimal teaching and learning opportunity among campers, counselors and the medical staff.