A Tribute to Discovery Asthma Camp.

The year 2008 marks the end of an era for Discovery Asthma Camp. After 20 wonderful years we must discontinue our residence Camp for Children with Asthma. This was a very difficult decision for the Board and staff as our summer camp provided a fun filled environment to teach our children asthma management. Because of decreasing camper numbers and the increasing challenge of securing adequate staffing and funding, the decision has been made to discontinue camp.

However, we would like to celebrate 20 years of successfully providing a summer residence camp for children with asthma! Hundreds of children have learned to better control their asthma, with reduced school absenteeism and emergency room visits. We would like to thank the communities of Saskatchewan for providing us with the support needed to conduct the camps.

The Board and staff of Discovery Asthma Camp acknowledge all of the people involved over the past 20 years. We would like to thank the:

• many health care professionals in the health community who have volunteered thousands of hours to provide exceptional care for the campers;
• ACT/UCT Councils of Saskatchewan for providing over $600,000 over the past 20 years;
• many community minded individuals, organizations and companies who have supported the camp;
• owners (Barb and Reine Yanke) of Hitchcock.s Hideaway facility for their extraordinary effort in accommodating every need of the campers and staff;
• campers for making this such an enjoyable experience for all . you are our champions!; and
• parents of campers for seeking out ways to help your children manage their own asthma!

Where do we go from here? The Lung Association of Saskatchewan and the medical team of Discovery Asthma Camp are committed to meeting the changing needs of children with asthma and their families and new, innovative initiatives are being explored. If you have any questions or would like to assist us in identifying those needs please call the Lung Association at 306-343-9511.

Please call our Asthma Help-line at 1-888-566-LUNG to speak with a Certified Respiratory Educator or access our website at www.sk.lung.ca for more information on asthma.