The International Children Camp 2024, dedicated to children and adolescents with primary lymphedema, brought together nearly 200 participants in the beautiful Ardèche region of France. This third edition of the camp that took place from July 3 to 7, 2024, focused on supporting children and adolescents with primary lymphedema and their families, offering a vital space for community building, education, and support.
Creating a Space for Connection and Support
The camp’s program Participant Guide International Children Camp 2024 was thoughtfully designed to offer a blend of educational and recreational activities. Workshops and patient meetings provided valuable insights into living with primary lymphedema, while fun and engaging activities helped build a sense of camaraderie among participants. Healthcare professionals and volunteers played a key role in delivering both emotional support and practical advice, ensuring that families felt equipped to handle the challenges associated with the condition.
A highlight of the camp was the introduction of the latest VASCERN resources: the Lymphoedema Do’s and Don’ts Infographic and the Lymphoedema Colouring Book. These tools received positive feedback, helping to educate and engage children in understanding their condition through creative and accessible formats.
Collaboration Across Borders
The event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of several dedicated organizations, including the CHU Montpellier Primary Lymphedema Reference Center, Hospital Cognacq-Jay, the French Lymphedema Partnership (PFL), the International Lymphoedema Framework (ILF), and the Italian Lymphedema Framework (ITALF). Additional support from patient associations like Association Vivre Mieux le Lymphoedème (AVML) and Lymphido further highlighted the collaborative spirit of the event. Their collective dedication highlights the importance of global cooperation in supporting the lymphedema community.
Members of the VASCERN Pediatric and Primary Lymphedema (PPL) Working Group, such as Susan Noregaard, Caroline Fourgeaud, Manuela Lourenço Marques (PPL WG ePAG Co-Chair), and Andrzej Szuba, were also in attendance. Their expertise and commitment greatly enriched the camp experience, offering invaluable guidance to the families present.
Fostering a Supportive Community
The International Children Camp 2024 was a celebration of resilience and hope. For many families, the camp provided a unique opportunity to connect with others who understand their journey, creating lasting memories and friendships. The event emphasized the power of community in overcoming the challenges of living with primary lymphedema.
As the camp concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of empowerment and a deeper connection to a global network of support. The success of this year’s camp underscores the ongoing need for education, research, and advocacy to improve the quality of life for those affected by lymphedema.
For more information on future camps, please visit the dedicated website here.