| Northwest Kidney Kids Teen Camp 2015
This year NW Kidney Kids hosted one of our largest Teen Kidney Camp with 16 teens registered and 14 attending our "Survivor" themed camp August 4th-7th. This year's camp focused on serving the wellness needs of this unique group of kids living with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Camp was held at Aldersgate Camps and Retreats in Turner, OR which offers numerous amenities including but not limited to a 32-foot climbing wall, waterslide, inner rube creek float, newly remodeled indoor gym, tree swing, table games and a playground.  We had a packed program this year but our group was very enthusiastic about challenging themselves and put forth tremendous effort during our hike at Silver Falls State Park, yoga, cooking challenge, laser tag and other team challenges. During the week campers had fun trying new things while they learned vital lessons from fitness and nutrition professionals about how to take person responsibility of their health. Each teen was provided with an interactive activity monitor to track their steps, fluid intake and other important health information. Each day our teens met their step goals of 10,000 steps (approx. 5 miles) and averaged around 16,000 steps per day with some reaching up to 26,000 steps! This achievement is extremely notable due to the fact that research shows us only a small percentage (approximately 14.7% ) of high school age youth achieve the daily recommended 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (approx. 10,000 and 11,700 steps per day) to maintain optimal health. It is also well established that physical activity levels drastically decrease during adolescence (girls> boys) and decreases in regular physical activity can increase the likelihood for health issues during adulthood. As a population already suffering from a chronic disease that includes a suppressed immune system for maintaining a kidney transplant, it is even more important they gain skills to ensure positive health behaviors. This is why we focused on nutritional behaviors as well as physical activity behaviors. Our Teens learned to prepare kidney friendly meals via DaVita and learned that they don't have to sacrifice their favorite foods just to maintain their health. Camp could not have been possible without our wonderful camp nurses and dedicated camp counselors who offered invaluable support to our teens. During camp teens were able to make meaningful connections with other teens, as well as mentors who have personal experience with CKD or work with people like them on a daily basis and understand what it means to successfully manage CKD. Your generosity made this impactful and life changing experience possible for teens dealing with chronic kidney disease. With your support NW Kidney Kids, Inc. continues to"Empower Kidney Kids for Lifelong Success". Thank you for all that you do for this organization and those we serve. |
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