Camp WheezeAway
June 27 – July 1, 2010
Camp WheezeAway-The American Lung Association of Alabama (ALAA) is preparing for its 19th Annual Camp WheezeAway, a FREE 5 day summer camp experience for children ages 8-12 with moderate to severe asthma. This year's session will be held June 27 – July 1, 2010 at Camp Chandler in Wetumpka, AL. We are awarding 50 full scholarships to first time campers. Partial scholarships may be available for returning campers.

Many summer camps do not accept children with asthma because of their daily medical needs, so the ALAA created a special camp where these children can experience all the fun of a traditional camp plus learn confidence building skills in asthma management from medical professionals. Parents can breathe easy knowing that their children are being supervised by a 24 hour medical staff of volunteer physicians, respiratory therapists, nurses, nurse practitioners, pharmacists and health care assistants while enjoying boating, swimming, fishing, archery, crafts, horseback riding and much more. It's a summer camp memory that lasts a lifetime and changes lives. Presentations and or/videos about Camp WheezeAway are available for interested parties.

The program is offered at no charge to participate or their families and its financially supported by grants, private donations and special event activities. Camp WheezeAway is a joint effort of the American Lung Association of Alabama and the Alabama Society of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Parents must complete and submit the application process with information from the child's health care provider.

Asthma is increasing at epidemic rates and is the leading cause of school absenteeism and children's hospital visits. It is the most common chronic illness among children, but can be managed with proper medications and training so that children are able to live a normal life. According to an American Lung Association study, an estimated 67,000 children in Alabama suffer from asthma (Estimated Prevalence and Incidence of Lung Disease by Lung Association Territory, American Lung Association).

For more information about Camp WheezeAway or if you would like to be a sponsor for Camp WheezeAway or other programs and services, please call 1-800-LUNG USA.

Click here to download the 2010 application. (pdf)