AYUDA 2026 Campo Amigo Program

My name is Luke Garvey. I’m a senior in high school, and I have lived with type one diabetes (T1D) for 14 years—I was diagnosed when I was just four years old. To give back to the diabetes community, I’m returning to volunteer and fundraise with American Youth Understanding Diabetes Abroad (AYUDA), which runs an educational (and fun!) summer camp in the Dominican Republic. At camp, we teach diabetes management and help children build sustainable habits—showing them they can live with diabetes, not for it.

Last summer, I was humbled to be part of Campo Amigo and witness real change firsthand. I was able to help kids gain practical skills and mindsets to improve their lives with diabetes, whether that was overcoming a fear of needles, learning the science behind it, or dispelling misconceptions. Campo also gives many campers something new: the chance to meet others with diabetes and realize they are not alone.

Additionally, I will take part in outreach programs for adults and parents of children with diabetes. I was honored to have a heartfelt conversation with the parent of a newly diagnosed young girl last year. It was both eye-opening to hear a parent’s perspective abroad and meaningful to share my own story and show that diabetes does not limit what we can achieve.

I cannot do this alone. AYUDA depends on fundraising for the functioning of all programs.* What’s more,  AYUDA is more than just the 3-week Campo Amigo program. It partners with Aprendiendo a Vivir (AAV), a local organization, which supports the Dominican diabetes community year-round, and donations support AAV as well. I would be incredibly grateful for your support in making this life-changing program possible. Any amount is greatly appreciated (and tax-deductible!!).

Thank you so much!!

With gratitude,

Luke

*This money goes straight to the children, community, and program. It does NOT go towards my travel.