Salinas Valley Health Offers Camp for Children Living with Asthma Registration Open for July 22-26 Camp in Salinas

Media Contact: Karina Rusk
831-759-1843

SALINAS, CA, April 30, 2018-Children living with asthma have the unique opportunity to learn how to better manage their condition while experiencing a summer camp environment with other children and adults who understand the impact of asthma. The Mark Velcoff, MD Asthma Camp, which is celebrating its 34th year, offers children with mild to severe asthma a chance to enjoy outdoor activities in a safe and supervised environment. Registration is open now for the weeklong camp, set for July 22 - July 26, 2019, at Monterey Park School.

The week is full of outdoor adventures such as hiking, swimming, soccer and even yoga. The immersive camp is as educational as it is fun. Campers learn about their condition, such as what triggers their asthma, the importance of the medications they take and how asthma affects their bodies.

“For the last 33 years Asthma Camp has been helping children with asthma achieve their full potential,” says Steven Prager, MD, camp medical director. “Seeing these children with asthma be able to run, play sports and camp out is very rewarding. We hope what these children learn at Asthma Camp will give them confidence for many years to come.”

The physical activities all take place under the supervision of trained staff, including physicians and clinical volunteers from Salinas Valley Health. At the start of camp, all participants get a T-shirt, fanny pack, an interactive workbook outlining a week of activities, tools to remember and a place to track their success. On the final day, there is a camp Olympics, family lunch and graduation.

May is Asthma Awareness Month. Every year the American Lung Association recognizes Asthma Awareness Month in May to support the 26 million Americans, including 6 million children, who may experience asthma symptoms during this peak season. While there is no cure for asthma, the chronic lung disease can be controlled. Camps such as the Mark Velcoff, MD Asthma Camp helps children get a better understanding of asthma and live an enjoyable and healthy life.

Salinas Valley Health and Children’s Miracle Network sponsor the Mark Velcoff, MD Asthma Camp. The weeklong camp is held at Monterey Park School from July 22-26, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for children ages 6 to 12 with mild to severe asthma. The cost is $55 per child and scholarships are available. Registration deadline is July 15, 2019.

To register or for more information, call 831-759-1890.