Decorah student shared his camp experience with the Decorah Lions

Decorah High School student Thomas Hendrickson recently shared his experience at Camp Hertko Hollow.

Last year Thomas was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. This past summer, Thomas attended a week-long outdoor experience at Camp Hertko Hollow thanks to a campership provided by the Mayo Clinic.  At camp he learned how to manage the disease, how to take care of himself, how to monitor his insulin levels and most importantly, that he was not alone. He participated in numerous sports, outdoor activities, arts and crafts, lectures and spent  time with other young people dealing with similar issues.

Camp Hertko Hollow was founded in 1968 by Dr. Edward Hertko.  It is held annually at a YMCA camp, north of Boone, Iowa. There are two, one week sessions, one for younger kids and one for teens. More than 14,000 kids have been helped by the camp since its founding.

Hendrickson said that the activities were much like those of other summer camps he had attended.  There was archery, swimming, campfires and he particularly enjoyed horseback riding, which he has enjoyed at home and because of his experience, was able to assist the staff help novice riders.

Campers are required to pay $650.00 to attend camp but the actual cost to provide the program for a camper is about $1,400.00 per session.  The difference is paid for by contributions to the Camp Hertko Hollow, which is a charitable non-profit organization.

Hendrickson said that he is hoping to attend the Camp again next year.