I was sort of coerced by my endo and mom into going to both a summer and a winter diabetes camp after I was diagnosed. I didn't really want to but I agreed. Neither were exceptional, I actually didn't like them, but that was when I think I was still in denial and didn't want to be surrounded by other diabetics! I absolutely hated being around them because it was all a competition: "I've been to the hospital X number of times... oh yeah? well I've passed out THIS number of times, I beat you!" I couldn't understand why they were competing for this! I enjoyed the outdoors activities, but I didn't really learn anything and that was very disappointing being a new diabetic.
But, I feel differently now. I would love to have diabetic friends or at least know somebody in person here! It took me a long time to search out a forum because of my old feelings, but joining this place has been one of the best decisions I ever made. If I had a diabetic child, I would want him/her to go, but I wouldn't force it. I'm sure they're a lot different these days. At least now I can laugh with my mom about it - she honestly had no clue I detested it so much and she felt so bad!
