Camp Kudzu E-News: July 2016 Edition
Meet our Campers: Dalton, age 14

My son, Dalton, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) just a few days before his 3rd birthday. Last year was his first year attending Camp Kudzu. For the first time EVER he was able to completely be himself. He was finally able to be with other kids his own age and just be a "regular" kid. Many times we take for granted the need to "fit in" or to be the "same" as our peers. Dalton, like most other children living with T1D, faces the reality every day that somehow he sticks out and is "different." Last summer at camp, Dalton learned that he had a lot in common with so many kids... and not just his own age either. He was able to see how others have learned to manage and accept their diagnosis, just as he did.

Before he went to camp I was simply hoping that he would find comfort in seeing other kids living with T1D. However, what I saw when I went to pick him up was so much more than I could have hoped for. I saw that these kids are much like a family to one another. Dalton was able to learn from his cabin buddies and also help guide a couple of newly diagnosed kids. It was nice to think that Dalton was able to comfort others, as well as find comfort and friendship all at the same time.

Dalton continues to tell the story of the "BEST WEEK of his life." He made friendships last summer that he continues to have today and I thank you, Camp Kudzu, for that! Dalton cannot wait to be back at Camp Kudzu this summer. 

Camp Kudzu Benefit Luncheon

Camp Kudzu's 9th annual Benefit Luncheon will be held on Tuesday, November 15, 2016. This year we are thrilled to be honoring one of our diabetes heroes, Chris Cann. In addition to honoring Chris and all that she does for Camp Kudzu, we are exciting to announce our newest Benefit Luncheon addition- the Light the Way Award. The first annual Light the Way Award will be presented to Usher Raymond IV- entertainer, philanthropist and father of a T1D camper. Sponsorship opportunities are available for this sellout event. 

Medical Corner- All About the Flip Flops  
Flip flops are summer go-to. We wear them at the beach, to the lake, when running errands, and even at camp. Sure, they are easy to wear and cool, but wearing these "shoes" (can we call them that?) for an extended period of time can come with great consequences.

A Huffington Post article highlights such long-term consequences. In collaboration with Jackie Sutera, podiatrist, and Cary Zinkin, spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association, the post highlights multiple studies- showing just how much damage wearing flip flops all summer can do. Additionally, they provide tips on "how to pick a better pair," stressing that all pairs are not created equal. Read the full article to find out what to look for when buying your next pair.  

Spin for Kids- October 16, 2016

Join the Camp Kudzu Team on Sunday, October 16th for the annual Spin For Kids event hosted by Camp Twin Lakes. Camp Kudzu partners with Camp Twin Lakes to provide programs for over 440 campers, while subsidizing the direct cost for every camper served. Spin For Kids offers multiple routes for riders of all skill levels. After crossing the finish line, riders join family and friends in a celebration of their accomplishments including delicious food, beer, live music and a chance to explore Camp. 

Farewell, Seth Tuttle

While we are sad to see him go, we are excited for Seth Tuttle and his lovely wife Malti as they embrace a rare opportunity. During his two years as Camp Kudzu's Director of Development, Seth has advanced support for our mission like no other. His personal connection to our cause, wry sense of humor, strategic mindset and sincerity marked his time with us.
 
Seth's wife, Malti, earned her Ph. D. in Counselor Education/School Counseling at the end of last year.  This summer, she accepted a faculty appointment to Auburn University, her alma mater. After difficult deliberations, Seth determined that a long distance commute from Auburn to Atlanta would not work. We are very sad to see Seth leave his position here but we celebrate the new chapter in his and Malti's life together. Seth created lasting value for the children we serve and for our organization's ability to earn philanthropic support. He remains connected to our cause and is only a phone call away. 
 
Please join us wishing Seth success as he embraces life in Sweet Home Alabama!  
Happenings and Opportunities

Registration is open for Fall Family Camp, Sept. 30 - Oct. 2! Diabetes affects the whole family and Family Camp is for the whole family, regardless of age. This weekend program allows families to come together to learn more about diabetes and to share their common experiences in a supportive setting. Family Camp is a great introduction for families with newly diagnosed or young children, or for families who need a boost in dealing with diabetes. 

Volunteers Needed
As we prepare for our third and final week of overnight summer camp, we need your help! Session III will take place in Cleveland, GA at Camp Barney Medintz. We look forward to welcoming over 180 campers and their families. We are in need of volunteers on Sunday, July 31 to help move campers in,  and Saturday, August 6 to help move camp out! If you are available to help, please reach out to LaShonda Reese at  [email protected].


Kendra Scott Gives Back Party
Join Camp Kudzu at Kendra Scott Avalon on Thursday, July 21st from 6:00-8:00 pm for a Give Back Party. Enjoy sips and sweet treats as you shop for the perfect summer accessories...and all for a good cause! 20% of all sales during this time will go directly to Camp Kudzu to help send kids to camp. See you there!


Fundraise for Camp Kudzu
If your neighborhood, book club, classroom, group or organization seeks a good cause for an event you wish to host, think Camp Kudzu! For more information on how you can host a Third Party event for Camp Kudzu, contact Mandy Mosier at  [email protected]
We Love Our Partners!
Camp Kudzu educates, empowers and inspires children living with diabetes. 


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