Tara Jeffrey
Brian Joyce says Camp Discovery was a life-saver for his young daughter.
“It’s a place where kids can just be kids,” he said of the London-area camp geared for children with Type 1 diabetes. “They don’t have to worry about having to do their insulin in front of people, or feel like they’re out of place.
“It really changed her perspective.”
Joyce said the family often struggled to pay for camp for his daughter Cara, now 17, and wants to give back to other families who might not be able to afford it.
So he put a call out to his friends and fellow musicians on Facebook a couple of months ago.
“Before I knew it, we’d put together a benefit concert,” he said. “It’s pretty incredible.”
The “Flame of Hope” event will take place at the Quality Inn, October 19 beginning at 6 p.m. and features a slew of performers including Scott Manery & the Barnburners, Rick Steeves, CD-DC, Aces High, and others. A taco bar and auction prices will also be available.
More than 300,000 Canadians live with Type 1 diabetes, in which the body produces little or no insulin, resulting in difficulty regulating blood sugar.
Camp Discovery is a branch of Diabetes Canada’s D-Camp programs, and accommodates approximately 70 campers each session, ages 7 to 12.
“I just hope we can raise some money and help these kids at a really critical time of their lives,” he said. “Every little bit of joy helps.”
IF YOU GO:
WHAT: Flame of Hope Concert (to benefit Diabetes Canada)
WHEN: Friday, Oct. 19, 6 p.m. to midnight
WHERE: Quality Inn, 751 Christina St. N
DETAILS: Tickets are $30 and are available at The Cooperators at 1117 Lakeshore Road, Sarnia, or visit www.diabetes.ca/flameofhopeconcert