From camper to director of the largest camping association serving people with diabetes

When Lisa Gier attended her first diabetes camp at Camp Hodia (a mix of Idaho and diabetes) at age 10, she had no idea she would build an amazing career in camping.

Lisa went on to become Camp Hodia’s first staff member and later its first Executive Director. In September 2024, Lisa became the Executive Director at the Diabetes Education & Camping Association (DECA), the largest camp association dedicated to serving people with diabetes. DECA members host around 400 camp sessions across the country, serving about 38,000 campers and their families each year.

Lisa says she’s excited to build on the incredible work of former DECA Executive Director Terry Ackley, who retired after 25 years with the organization.

She’s also looking forward to continuing DECA’s long-term partnership with TrialNet. Because relatives of people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) are 15 times more likely to develop the disease than the general population, TrialNet attends as many camps as possible to offer T1D risk screening for family members at camper drop-off. Risk screening can detect T1D in its earliest stages, often years before symptoms appear, which can change the course of the disease.

“TrialNet has been an invaluable partner with DECA and Camp Hodia over the years,” Lisa said. “Screening for the early stages of type 1 diabetes is so important, especially with all the exciting advances in research.”

In Lisa’s short time in her new role, she has planned two major conferences. “The Program Leadership Conference, held in February, is a fantastic platform for camp leaders to come together to share experiences and foster their professional growth,” she said.

Each May, DECA hosts a Medical Conference where camp medical directors and healthcare providers come together to share the latest research, technology, and advances in diabetes care. Lisa emphasizes, “Staying current on best practices in diabetes care isn’t just important—it’s essential for the safety and well-being of our campers.”

Reflecting on what’s changed since her first camp experience, Lisa says, “The core spirit of camp remains unchanged—the fun, friendships, and educational aspects. However, the landscape has evolved. We are seeing more adults diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, so we have camps for adults too. And camps are no longer just for summer—many of our members offer a variety of camps and programs throughout the year.”

Discover a world of adventure and independence at diabetes camp!

Did you know there are camps specially designed for children and adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D)? Diabetes camps provide the opportunity to engage in traditional camp activities like hiking, swimming, campfires, and games while learning to manage T1D in a safe and supportive environment.

At diabetes camps, children gain increased confidence and independence that last a lifetime. A survey by the American Diabetes Association found that 99% of campers left with at least one diabetes management skill, setting them on a path toward better health and self-reliance.

And camp isn’t just for summer anymore. You can find camps featuring back-country adventures, surf and ski programs, day camps, specialized trips, family camps, and even “bring a friend” programs. Many camps offer programs on weekends and during school vacations.

To find your closest camp, visit www.diabetescamps.org/all-camp-details/.