Volunteer Spotlight: Melissa Kleber, RD, LD, CDCES, MLDCES

What made you decide to volunteer at Camp Hendon and how long have you been volunteering?
Lisa Ullrich asked me to help with pump site changes for one day at camp.  That was about 15 years ago, and I’ve been volunteering ever since then.
 
What is your role at camp?
I am the Pump Team Leader at camp sessions, and am completing my tenure on the board of Camp Hendon.  I have served on the board for the past 7 years, and I look forward to continuing to be involved with camp through volunteering on committees.
 
Why do you come back year after year? What do you get from camp or how has it impacted your life?
The week of camp is my favorite of the year.  I love watching these amazing young people blossom and flourish as the week progresses.  I see them gain confidence and friends.  They realize they aren’t alone and have a wonderful support system through camp and their peers.  I see the positive impact camp has on these kids all year long.
 
What is your favorite activity at camp and why?
The big water slide is my favorite activity.  I love watching the kids laugh and how carefree they are when they are zooming down the slide.
 
What are some things you have learned or taken away from camp?
I have learned how truly resilient and strong people with diabetes are.   These kids are the smartest, bravest, strongest of all and they inspire me to be a better person every day.  I am honored to walk this journey with them.
 
What do you do in your real life when you’re not giving your time to Camp Hendon? 
I am a Diabetes Dare and Education Specialist at the Wendy Novak Diabetes Center in Louisville, and lead the diabetes technology program there. 
I have been married to my husband, Rob, for 27 years, and we have one son, Adam.  Adam is a senior in mechanical engineering at Purdue this year.  We have 2 dogs, Mini and Boomer, who keep us busy!
My hobbies include tap dancing (I think most of the campers know this), hiking, reading, and traveling.
 
Do you have any skills or talents that many may not know about you?
I have been tap dancing for most of my life, and teach classes in my time away from work.  

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