This week, children with asthma had the chance to go to summer camp just like any other kids.
Camp Bronchopower is a fun and educational sleep-away camp sponsored by the Rochester General Health Foundation.
More than 60 children who suffer from asthma attended the camp, which combines regular camp activities with asthma education.
Now in its 19th year, Bronchopower campers came to Camp Piperwood, in Perinton. This Wednesday marks the last day of camp for the kids, most of whom live in Rochester's inner city.
Each day, kids are split into groups for activities like arts, crafts and games. They also learn about topics like what triggers asthma, and how to best use their medications.
All campers between the ages of 6 and 12 were invited to attend the free camp through hospitals or medical clinics. The staff draws from many physicians, nurses, and educators as well as volunteer counselors from across the region.
Staff say the experience helps kids see that when it comes to having asthma, they're not alone.
Mary Beauchamp, of Penfield, is a pharmacist at Rochester General Hospital. She said that by starting early, children can develop healthy and safe habits as they get older.
Socially, she said the fun camp environment helps children meet others who struggle with the same challenges.
"In this setting, they see they're not the only one with asthma, and they can identify with other kids," said Beauchamp. "They can run, play, and learn, and feel more integrated."
This week, children with asthma had the chance to go to summer camp just like any other kids.
Camp Bronchopower is a fun and educational sleep-away camp sponsored by the Rochester General Health Foundation.
More than 60 children who suffer from asthma attended the camp, which combines regular camp activities with asthma education.
Now in its 19th year, Bronchopower campers came to Camp Piperwood, in Perinton. This Wednesday marks the last day of camp for the kids, most of whom live in Rochester's inner city.
Each day, kids are split into groups for activities like arts, crafts and games. They also learn about topics like what triggers asthma, and how to best use their medications.
All campers between the ages of 6 and 12 were invited to attend the free camp through hospitals or medical clinics. The staff draws from many physicians, nurses, and educators as well as volunteer counselors from across the region.
Staff say the experience helps kids see that when it comes to having asthma, they're not alone.
Mary Beauchamp, of Penfield, is a pharmacist at Rochester General Hospital. She said that by starting early, children can develop healthy and safe habits as they get older.
Socially, she said the fun camp environment helps children meet others who struggle with the same challenges.
"In this setting, they see they're not the only one with asthma, and they can identify with other kids," said Beauchamp. "They can run, play, and learn, and feel more integrated."
