Diabetes camp at Weber State offers kids community and confidence

OGDEN – It’s a place where kids say they don’t have to explain what it’s like to live with type 1 diabetes – a local program that is changing lives.

The REACH Children Diabetes Camp is all about empowering kids living with type 1 diabetes – giving them a sense of community and confidence.

Harper Hassell suited up for a day of rock climbing with kids just like her who have type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease that prevents the pancreas from making insulin.

“Some of my other friends that go to school, they don’t have it so they don’t really understand,” Harper said.

Harper Hassell has type 1 diabetes and said she loves the sense of community she gets from the REACH program. (KSL TV)

At the REACH Children Diabetes Camp, it’s about normalizing the disease.

Suzy Hassell, Harper’s mom, said Suzy was diagnosed five years ago at 7 years old.

“Diabetes is a 24-hour disease. It never lets up,” Suzy Hassell said. “You’re always monitoring, especially with kids’ activity.”

At REACH, kids don’t have to hide the tech they use.

“This is Harper’s CGM. So, we can see her blood sugars,” Suzy Hassell said. “She also has a pump on, which is giving her insulin.”

Suzy Hassell said the REACH program helps kids with type 1 diabetes have confidence. (KSL TV)

They learn how to take care of themselves while recreating with others.

“I just have to monitor my blood sugars so that I don’t go too high and I don’t go too low,” Harper said.

And, kids get to celebrate successes along the way.

“We see kids come in just as nervous as can be, hiding their diabetes, and next time they come, they’re showing their diabetes tech. They are definitely confident,” Suzy Hassell said.

This is part of a year-round community recreation program held on the Weber State campus.

“REACH has put on this free camp for all diabetic children,” Suzy Hassell said. “Then they have a tween camp for all the teenagers to hang out as well.”

The REACH program receives generous donations from local community groups to help kids and their families bond with those who understand their journey.

“I think it’s important to know that you’re not alone. And that you have supporters and other people understand what you’re going through,” Harper said.

To learn more about other camps and programs REACH Weber offers, click here.