EXPERIENCING KAMP K'AANA

The concept of health and wellness has been a staple in our society today, from changes in our grocery stores to educational outreach from Nutritional experts. However, the idea of health and wellness has its own historical and cultural background. The word K’aana is derived from the Alabama Coushatta Indian language meaning “health and wellness”. From June 23rd to July 6th,16 campers ranging from the ages of 10-14 have been achieving activity and nutritional awareness through Kamp K’aana.  

This two-week program was held at the YMCA's Camp Grady Spruce, and catered to children who are above a healthy weight. Camp Grady Spruce, located on Possum Kingdom Lake, gave campers the opportunity to swim and boat in the lake, rock climb, hike, canoe, sail, and experience the great outdoors without any distraction. 

Kamp K'aana is designed by a team of pediatric specialists with each camper receiving three meals a day and several snacks in a meal plan designed by dietitians. Meals are delicious, balanced and nutritious with an emphasis on high fiber and whole grains rather than sugar and fat. During the two weeks, campers were equipped with the tools they needed to conquer their weight management issues while at the same time experiencing the wonder of camp and the impact it has on increasing their self-confidence and building self-esteem. In fact, before Kamp K'aana, one camper had to take four shots of insulin per day based on her blood sugars running 200-300. By day two of camp her blood sugars dropped to 95-182 and by day four she was under 100. Her insulin intake started decreasing on day five and by July 1st she was completely off her insulin!

" My favorite memory here at camp was when we jumped off the cliffs. It was so fun and I didn't expect to jump but everyone around me was cheering me on and it pushed me to conquer that jump. Being at camp has helped me live a healthier life. The adventures, friendships, and food were a great experience. I will definitely be coming back to Kamp K'aana!" - Allie Lopez, camper

By the end of camp, each of the 16 campers lost an average of 8 pounds and a new perspective on what it means to live a healthy lifestyle. They built relationships that expanded the campgrounds and will last for years to come. Not only that, but parents of the campers learned new tips and tricks on how to have the whole family motivated to maintain their weight and obtain long –term results together.  

We are thankful for the hard work from our YMCA staff in creating an environment at Kamp K’aana that not only inspires the campers but inspires others who hear about their journey! This is the second year the program has been offered at the Y. Learn more about how you can help support Kamp K’aana here

 

Authored by: cmccauley