Camp Superstuff Rocks Through Another Summer!
At first glance, Camp Superstuff looks like an ordinary summer day camp for kids. But after talking to campers like Jackee Thompson for just a few minutes, anyone will see that this camp offers an experience that is quite extraordinary.
“When I was younger I didn’t know what was wrong with me and I didn’t know what to do,” recalled Jackee. “I found out I had asthma but didn’t really know what it was.” When her asthma continued to prevent her from doing many everyday activities, her doctor recommended that she attend Camp Superstuff. Now after returning for her second year, Jackee is feeling more at ease with her condition.
“I learned how to control my asthma and what causes it,” she continued. “I have been doing better and better since coming to camp because before I didn’t really know what asthma was or how to treat it. Camp has let me know that I’m not the only one with asthma and that you shouldn’t be ashamed of having it.”
Jackee’s is just one the many success stories shared by the 23 kids
who attended Camp Superstuff this past summer at the Camden Community Center
in San Jose. Campers participated in daily asthma management lessons as
well as discussions with their peers about issues surrounding their disease.
“Camp has helped me because I know how to breathe, how to use other
medicine,” said camper Annera Clark. “I learned about my body
and now feel in control.”
In addition, these classes were coupled with a number of exciting games
and activities that let the kids just be kids. On any given day, campers
could be seen going for a swim, playing twister and taking field trips to
places such as Great America – all while forming many new friendships.
“Camp is fun and you make a lot of new friends,” said Andrew
Lewis. “And you know that you’re not the first one who has had
asthma or the only one who has it.”
By week’s end, campers went home with priceless memories and a newly-gained
knowledge of their asthma. And as they shared their experiences with their
families on how they could breathe easier, many parents came to realize
what an unique opportunity Camp Superstuff offers. “The camp is great,”
remarked Willet Tugwell, grandparent of a third year camper D.J. Ruffins.
“Doctors were brought in and gave campers a lot of supplies and equipment
for their asthma that they wouldn’t have otherwise gotten. Every year,
he [D.J.] meets new friends and has a lot of fun. He has so much fun here
that he is always bringing new kids to camp that also need help with their
asthma.”
Without the help of our sponsors, we could not have made Camp Superstuff a success. A special thanks goes to United Way who helped provide scholarships for campers in need. We would also like to recognize Steps to a Healthier CA, Blue Cross of California, and The Health Trust for their generous support.
To learn more about Camp Superstuff or to sign up for next year, contact
Joseph Francis at (408) 998-5865 or joseph@lungsrus.org.