Camp Purple Live, 2023: Empowering Children with IBD for a Life Beyond Limits

Celebrating its eighth year, the 2023 edition of the camp witnessed a remarkable turnout, with a record number of 96 campers from all across the country. This figure is more than double the number of attendees from our inaugural camp held in 2015. The camp was hosted in the scenic city of Christchurch and brought together 35 dedicated volunteers, all of whom have IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease), along with five gastroenterologists, five nurses, and a child psychologist. Notably, the camp even had an international volunteer from Lithuania, reflecting its growing recognition.

The camp organisers had an action-packed schedule filled with exciting activities. The campers were thrilled with the array of options, including a waterslide (run by the local Volunteer Fire Brigade), tree climbing, rope courses, and shooting and archery. However, the highlight for everyone was the away-day activity. The campers embarked on a day of exhilarating Blo-Karting and Drift-Karting, which left them with unforgettable memories.

Another important component of Camp Purple Live is the "Experience Camp for a Day," held in conjunction with the camp's carnival on the final full day. This unique opportunity is designed for children aged 5 and above who may feel hesitant or unsure about attending the week-long camp. It allows them to get a taste of what Camp Purple is all about. The carnival itself featured a mechanical bull and a dunk tank, where campers had a blast dunking fellow campers, volunteers, and medical staff.

The night of the carnival also brought another highly anticipated event: the camp's themed disco. Participants arrived in their best "Beach Day" costumes, showcasing their creativity and enthusiasm. Lobsters, lifeguards, and even a jellyfish were among the standout outfits.

One of the key components of Camp Purple Live is a two-day seminar specifically designed for parents and caregivers. Organised by Professor Andrew Day, researcher, paediatric gastroenterologist, and CCNZ Board member from Christchurch, the seminar focuses on education and addresses the challenges faced by parents of children with IBD. Importantly, it offers parents the opportunity to connect, share experiences, network with other caregivers, and form lasting friendships.

Camp Purple, with its dedicated medical staff and volunteers, provides campers with an invaluable chance to experience essential elements of childhood. It empowers them to develop independence, boost self-esteem, push themselves physically, and take pride in their achievements. Alongside the camp activities, the children also learn about their diseases, acquiring vital knowledge. They engage in coping skills development through group activities such as Q&A sessions with the medical team and group sessions led by our clinical child psychologist, who also has IBD.

To learn more about experiences at Camp Purple Live, watch our camp video from 2018: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uin88vOE7_s or visit our webpage at www.crohnsandcolitis.org.nz.

If you would like to request and application pack, either as a volunteer or camper, please email Nicola at campenquiries@crohnsandcolitis.org.nz.