At its June 6th meeting, the Sebasticook Valley Health (SVH) Diabetes and Nutrition Clinic Advisory Committee presented Warsaw Middle School student, Jordan Scott of Pittsfield, with a scholarship to attend Camp Adventure in Mapleton, Maine, this summer.
During the scholarship presentation, Clinic Coordinator Kay Spofford, RDLD, CDE, noted that “SVH is pleased to present Jordan with a camp scholarship to attend Camp Adventure this summer. Camp Adventure is specifically for teens with Type 1 Diabetes [once known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes]. The camp staff helps children manage their diabetes with current information and techniques while instilling healthy behaviors.”
Having diabetes has made Jordan feel different from other kids. “It can be frustrating to not be like other kids and have these extra things to think about,” he explained. Jordan enjoys athletic activities at school, especially kickball.
Since his diagnosis two years ago, Jordan’s mother, Alison, has been motivated to keeping Jordan healthy and happy, although she admitted that having a child with diabetes can be stressful. “I am always alert to Jordan’s specific health needs, and I’m always monitoring to make sure he’s okay. I have a lot more to learn,” she explained.
Jordan was nominated by his school nurse when the SVH Diabetes and Nutrition Clinic requested nominations to select a student to receive the camp scholarship from the Julie Ann Vainio Memorial Fund. Julie Anne Vainio passed away on September 23, 2010. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Vainio of Abbott and Mr. and Mrs. James Maguire of Gardiner, established the fund in her memory at Sebasticook Valley Health.
Ms. Spofford explained that the week-long overnight camp “is staffed by an endocrinologist, physicians, nursing professionals, certified diabetes educators, and dietitians with the goal to safely encourage greater independence and responsibility for self-management.” Campers enjoy various outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking while gaining important knowledge about diabetes and staying safe.
For more information about the SVH Diabetes and Nutrition Clinic, please contact Kay Spofford at 487.4068.
Shown (left to right): Kay Spofford with Jordan Scott and his mom, Alison