Camp 2021

Metabolic Camp Experience

Out of abundance of caution due to COVID-19, we will have a virtual camp for 2021, called Metabolic eCamp via Zoom. Similar to our in-person camp, the virtual camp offers research, education, and social support. Metabolic eCamp will take place June 23-25, 2021, with approximately 30 campers and 20 staff.

Camp Components

The camp program is comprised of:

  • Nutrition Counseling Groups – Daily nutrition management counseling sessions conducted by medical faculty (registered dietitian) and an assistant (nutrition student).
  • Large Group Classes – Topics may include nutrition management, genetics, maternal PKU, reproductive health, exercise, and others. Classes are taught in large group setting and in breakout groups.
  • Small Activity Groups – Themes may include cooking, medical food taste testing, personal wellness, art, and others. Activities are conducted in small group settings.
  • Social Support – Activities may include icebreakers, games, formal & informal discussions with presenters, staff, and fellow campers.

Typical Day

11:00am-11:25am EST Welcome
11:30am-12:15pm EST Activity Groups
12:20pm-12:45pm EST Virtual Exhibit
12:50pm-1:40pm EST Group Class
1:45pm-2:25pm EST Nutrition Counseling Session
2:30pm-2:55pm EST Virtual Exhibit
3:00pm-3:25pm EST Group Class
3:30pm-4:00pm EST Patient Story |
Daily Recap | Closing

Sample Cooking Class Recipes

Camp Teaching Focus

Metabolic Camp focuses on lifelong MNT of IMDs, new PKU and IMD therapies, treatment adherence, transitioning care, MPKU featuring stories from PKU moms for campers, reproductive choices, and pregnancy planning.

Camper Demographics

This year’s camp welcomed a variety of girls and young women from 8 US States, plus Canada and Argentina.

Camper Feedback and Satisfaction

RDs learned about campers’ barriers to adherence in camp setting that are not often revealed in clinic setting. In addition, 13 campers responded to a post-camp survey to provide formal feedback.