Living with epilepsy does have its challenges. With the help of the Epilepsy Foundation a child can get an opportunity to go to summer camp. My son has went to Camp Oz for three years. Camp Oz is supported by the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota. If this camp was not available, my son would not be able to attend a summer camp. Camp Oz has health care experts available for the whole week of camp. The experts include neurologist, nursing staff, psychologists and others. The great thing is they are prepared for a child having a seizure and have the experience. In addition they have the expertise of ensuring your child has taken his medication. The folks with Camp Oz have really done a great job supporting my son while he is at camp.
- It is Camp Oz where my son learned how to shoot a bow and arrow.
- It is Camp Oz where he rode a horse.
- It is Camp Oz where he got to kayak.
- It is Camp Oz where he could meet other kids with epilepsy, and have fun.
- It is Camp Oz that provided a safe environment where I didn’t have to worry about my son or his medical condition.
I really can’t thank them enough for helping us. I highly recommend this camp. Plus no camper will be turned away based on their inability to pay the camp fee. Talk to Nikki Baker, the Camp Director. She is a great person and through Camp Oz has become a friend to my family. Please read below for more information:
Camp Oz – Epilepsy Foundation – Minnesota Organization: Epilepsy Foundation Contact: Nikki Baker, Camp Director, Address 1: Camp Oz Offices Address 2: 2356 University Avenue W., Suite 405 City: St. Paul State: Minnesota Zip Code: 55114 Phone 1: (800) 779-0777, Ext. 2310 Phone 2: (651) 287-2310 Email:nbaker@efmn.org URL:http://www.efm.nonprofitoffice.com
Staff Training and Certification Staff Training:
Our health service staff includes registered nurses (on site 24 hours a day) psychologists, a neurologist and pharmacists (on site daylight hours, available for consultation 24 hours). All are experienced in caring for children and teens with epilepsy. Participants Served Program is specific to people with disabilities.
Age range of participants (8 to 17)
Membership Fees There is a fee to participate in the program. Sliding/Adjusted Fee Scales: Scholarships are available. No camper will be turned away based on their inability to pay the camp fee.
Notes Camp Oz is a one-week camping program for children and teens, ages 8-17, who have epilepsy. It combines a traditional camp experience with the security of a specially trained medical and behavioral staff. Summer camp offers participants a chance to spend time away from home, experience a variety of recreational activities, and make new friends. Children and teens with seizure disorders may not always think about going to summer camp because of their medical needs, but Camp Oz addresses those concerns while remaining full of fun.
The Camp’s 152 wooded acres include a waterfront, rustic cabins, a lodge for program activities, dining hall, centrally located shower and toilet facilities, chapel, health service, arts and crafts building, athletic field, and a small game area. Campers enjoy a unique summertime experience, gain a better understanding of epilepsy, learn more about their medications, and meet others who know what it’s like to live with seizures. Camp is usually held during the middle of June. A special outdoor program encourages children to participate in a variety of activities:
•Swimming and Fishing
•Canoeing and Sailing
•Overnights and Cookouts
•Skits and Organized Games
•Evening Campfires and Singing
•High Ropes Course and Group Initiatives
For more information, please visit: http://www.efm.nonprofitoffice.com
A special thanks to: Nikki Baker, Dr. Frost, Carol, Scott, Julia Doss, and everyone else that help make Camp Oz a wonderful experience. J.O. says thank you too!
Snowflakes 