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Camp Sioux, founded in 1952 by E.A. Haunz, M.D., with the support of the Grand Forks Kiwanis Club is a summer camp for insulin-dependent diabetic children, ages 8 to 14. Two one-week sessions are held at Turtle River State Park in Arvilla, North Dakota. Camp Sioux fulfills a longing to share the kinds of experiences non-diabetic children talk to much about. Campers discover the joys and adventures of the rugged outdoors, and at the same time are guaranteed the kind of medical supervision they require from a highly-trained team of physicians, nurses and dietitians.
At Camp Sioux, young persons with diabetes discover their potential -- developing muscle coordination, experimenting and trying out new skills without fear of rejection by their peers. It is where they get expert counseling and learn about their limitations and need for control, but do it under fun conditions.
Nothing at Camp Sioux is left to chance. Dietitians adjust the menus to the individual camper's needs; insulin dosages are determined daily from the results of daily testing; and the medical director meets regularly with the staff and counselors to review reports on each child.
Counselors are selected for their ability to carry out standard camp activities and assist young campers with special problems children with diabetes face. Many counselors are former Camp Sioux campers.
