Type 1 diabetes introduces children, youth, and families to a new reality, one that can make some kids feel different from their friends. A diagnosis also brings with it a whole new set of skills to learn, including testing blood glucose (sugar) levels, priming needles for injection, and counting the daily intake of carbs. Many young people often find themselves being the only person at their school or in their community with diabetes and it can be challenging to accept a diagnosis.

D-Camps are medically supervised summer camps for kids living with type 1 diabetes that foster inclusion and create a sense of belonging for campers. The goal of D-Camps is to instill an atmosphere of inclusivity, where campers gain a new level of independence in managing their type 1 diabetes and feel empowered to continue using the healthy practices they learn. Diabetes Canada provides subsidies each year to ensure all children with type 1 diabetes can attend camp regardless of financial circumstances.