(March 3, 2004) — Youngsters with moderate to severe asthma have a chance to enjoy a week in San Diego's "back country" in the "SCAMP Camp" program held by the American Lung Association of San Diego and Imperial Counties.
SCAMP stands for Southern California Asthma Medical Program. Every year since 1977, doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, and other experts have volunteered to help kids aged 8-13 learn how to handle asthma and enjoy outdoor activity at the same time.
This year's SCAMP Camp will be held at the YMCA Camp Marston from June 20-25. To attend, an application must be completed with the assistance of the child's doctor. The deadline to apply is Friday, May 7. For applications and further information, call the American Lung Association at 619-297-3901 or 800-LUNG-USA. Applications are available online at www.lungsandiego.org.
"SCAMP Camp is available to children who have moderate to severe asthma without regard for their ability to pay," says Sacsy Sukcharoun, the SCAMP coordinator. "Children whose asthma is more severe will have the greatest chance to be accepted as one of the 100-plus SCAMPers this year."
Celebrating 100 years of progress in fighting lung disease through prevention, research, and education, the American Lung Association of San Diego and Imperial Counties originated the Lung Express program, conducts the annual SCAMP Camp and other efforts to assist children with asthma; maintains partnerships with county health departments and other agencies to combat tuberculosis; convenes Better Breathers Clubs to support adults with impaired lung function; leads in advocacy for the creation of tobacco-free communities and better air quality; supports lung research; educates health care providers and the public about lung health. Key events upcoming include the 3rd Annual AsthmaWalk on September 26, 2004 and the 100-Year Birthday Bash on June 13, 2004.
