Camp Articulaction or Camp kids on the move, for children with rheumatologic diseases, will celebrate its fifth anniversary this summer.

Dr. Sarah Campillo and nurse Gillian Taylor, from the Department of Rheumatology at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, in partnership with the Arthritis Society, developed this summer camp.

Since 2004, children and adolescents from all over Quebec have come to Saint-Alphonse-Rodriguez in Lanaudière to live a unique summer camp experience in a secure environment adapted to their needs.

These young people have the chance to develop special ties with other youth living with the same difficulties. This summer, about 40 youth suffering from juvenile arthritis, lupus, dermatomyositis and scleroderma will take part in the camp from August 3 to 9. What’s more, counselors and assistant counselors who have arthritis themselves will come to work at the camp.

A medical team specializing in rheumatology will also be on hand throughout the week. Each year, the testimonials from parents and campers are very positive, and the majority of campers from previous years will be back this summer.