Over the summer it is a right of passage for many kids to spend a week at overnight camp, but for a child with type 1 diabetes it can be an impossibility.

For children with juvenile diabetes, the loss of that small sense of independence at camp can be devastating due to the need to monitor blood sugars and administer insulin.

Thanks to the Canadian Diabetes Association, kids all across Canada have the opportunity to go to a special week long camp that caters to their diabetes and helps them feel 'normal'.

Camp Jean Nelson has been offering kids with diabetes an opportunity to go to camp in Alberta since 1957 when it was founded by Jean Nelson, who was diagnosed with diabetes at the age of 5.

The camp sits on 160 acres of land that has tons of activities for the kids and great dorm facilities, along with 30 medical staff that cover off the dosage and administering of insulin throughout the week.

"We have what we would call an insulin adjuster who is a doctor or a fellow who is actually dosing the insulin and looking at the numbers and finding the trends," said Ted Lockie, Manager of Camp and Youth Programs in Western Canada for the Canadian Diabetes Association.

The camp also has an insulin assist who is making sure that the dose is administered properly, and a dietician or dietetic intern who helps the kids decide what they're going to eat and figure how many carbs are in it.

24 of the 25 camp counsellor's have type 1 diabetes so they are able to offer the kids a great support network as well as an opportunity to be a great role model.

"Our campers have the opportunity to meet and interact with a 'cool' role model who is also living with Type 1," said Lockie.

The camp has traditional activities including arts and crafts and archery but there is also a large high rope structure and a swimming pool.

Throughout the week kids also get an opportunity to go for a short hike to a grouping of teepees and spend the night in the wilderness.

Lockie said the camp focuses on 4 key goals, including teaching independent self management of diabetes, nurturing friendships, improving self esteem, and offering a safe traditional camp environment. 

"It really gives a strong sense of community in our camp for those kids to see that they are not alone, and that they've got these role models. It helps us build a strong sense of community when everybody is informed and aware, or even experiencing the same challenges."