Qatar Diabetes Association (QDA), a member of Qatar Foundation (QF) launched Sunday its 25th annual Al Bawasil International Camp for children with diabetes.
Al Bawasil International Camp annually creates an educational, safe, and fun environment for children living with diabetes from across the Middle East and North Africa region to connect and share their experiences, whilst also offering training and practical advice for them.
A total of 60 boys and girls, aged 7-11 and from 13 countries, including Qatar, are participating in the largest of its kind event in the region.
The opening ceremony, at the Student Centre at Education City, QF began with a speech from QDA executive director and camp chairman Dr Abdulla al-Hamaq. A documentary about the camp from 1999 to its 25th year, followed. There were entertainment activities for the children and a theatrical performance featuring cartoon characters.
Educational elements of the camp include workshops that deal with diabetes and its management, such as insulin injections, insulin pumps, Self-Monitoring Blood Glucose, carb counting and a workshop on oral health and activities for handicrafts. Additionally, the camp incorporates simple sports activities with entertainment programmes.
Dr al-Hamaq said: “We aim to help the children lead a healthy lifestyle and cope with diabetes by fostering their knowledge of diabetes and building confidence in managing the condition so they can enjoy a normal and productive life”
“QDA launched the first-ever Al Bawasil camp in 1999 only for Children from Qatar. In 2009, we opened it up to the Gulf countries, and our first international delegation attended in 2013 when the International Diabetes Federation considered it a global camp that can welcome children from all over the world," Dr al-Hamaq added.
Some of the participants at the camp.
