Camps Big Day Out

Parents of children with type 1 diabetes are on alert 24/7, managing a relentless condition with no cure. It can take a toll on their mental health, with many quietly experiencing burnout and anxiety.

The Camps Big Day Out event was an opportunity for kids living with type 1 to explore the zoo in the safe care of health professionals. Meanwhile, parents attended expert-led sessions that addressed the hidden challenges families face.

“We understand that when your child is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, your life changes too,” says Diabetes Victoria CEO Glen Noonan.

“The early weeks, months and years, can be overwhelming.

“Sixteen years ago, my son Lochie was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at nine years old. 

“I remember that day vividly – the shock, the endless questions, and the feeling of helplessness. As a parent, you just want to fix things for your child, and this was something I couldn't fix.”

Caring for the carers

Many parents and carers of children with type 1 diabetes feel they can “never switch off,” which can contribute to chronic stress. However, support tailored to carers of younger children remains limited.

The parent event aimed to change that by providing practical tools and a sense of community for families who are often navigating this journey alone.

“Parents were able to enjoy some respite, knowing their kids were in expert hands,” Mr Noonan explains.

“Presentations included managing carer burnout – helping parents to support their own mental health – a Q and A with diabetes educators, and how to navigate sleepovers, school excursions and sport.

“It was fantastic to see people connect with other parents in the room and take advantage of the expertise of our guest speakers and clinicians.

“We wanted parents to know they are part of a community that not only understands but also stands with them.”

Independence for kids, support for parents

Debbie Butcher says her 10-year-old son Caius has benefited enormously from the camps program. He attended his first camp in April after being diagnosed three years ago.

“We are quite new to the Diabetes Victoria community, but when we walked into the zoo for the Camps Big Day Out, everyone remembered Caius by name and it was such a warm welcome,” she says.

“I have so much trust in the wonderful diabetes nurse educators and all the camp volunteers, they are all magnificent. It was ideal for Caius to explore the zoo while I attended the parent information sessions, knowing he was in safe hands.”

Caius was in foster care as a baby, and Debbie and her husband became his permanent care guardians when he was only 16 months old.

“Every child is special, but he is extra special. He brings so much love and laughter into our house. He was meant to be with us,” she says.

“The camp was the first time he has spent two nights away from us. It was daunting, but he had a ball and we were rapt that he enjoyed it. He is a social butterfly and loved being around other kids who understand living with type 1.

“Since the camp he has become more independent and is able to manage some of his own care now. It was an important stepping stone, and it means he can attend a school camp later this year.”

Debbie says the Camps Big Day Out event was “extremely valuable” as a parent.

“Listening to the panel was excellent – hearing about what they have achieved while managing type 1 was inspiring.”

“I found all the information sessions extremely valuable. On top of that, the Diabetes Victoria community is wonderful… just a lovely bunch of people.

“I encourage anyone caring for a child with type 1 to learn more about the camps program or attend the next Diabetes Victoria event.”