Sansum Clinic hosted and sponsored the 48th year of Camp Wheez, a free, week-long summer day camp for children with asthma that blends learning and play and is designed to meet the special needs of this pediatric population.
This month, nearly 40 campers in grades one-six participated in hands-on activities and crafts, played games, enjoyed performances, and learned how to confidently manage their asthma symptoms, according to Sansum Clinic (now part of Sutter Health).
At Camp Wheez children interact with asthma educators and learn about their condition outside of a physician’s office.
“Supervised by doctors, respiratory care practitioners and nurses, the camp meets the highest safety standards and provides reassurance for families seeking a camp environment that addresses the medical needs of their children,” Sansum said.
Camp director Sarah Williams, allergist and immunologist Dr. Myron Liebhaber, and a volunteer group made up of local high school students, many who are former campers, led the group through daily activities including a lung lab and a cooking class.
The 2025 camp theme was Shoot for the Stars with community star visits including a hula hoop dancer, a karate master, and a violinist. Dr. Liebhaber presented his amateur magic tricks, a favorite part of camp that has become a tradition.
Parents attended an asthma education lunch and workshop, where they met with clinicians to learn more about pediatric asthma.
“My son benefits so much from the education he receives at Camp Wheez, which has helped him become more empowered in the role he can personally take in the day-to-day management of his condition,” said the parent of a camper.
“While I truly have had a ball leading this camp for more than 48 years, it’s about more than just having fun,” said Dr. Liebhaber. “It’s about giving kids the confidence and knowledge to manage their asthma while letting them enjoy all that summer has to offer.”
Liebhaber celebrated not only another successful year of Camp Wheez, but his upcoming retirement from Sansum Clinic after serving Central Coast patients for more than four decades.
Camp Wheez is made possible thanks to community donors and the help of Sansum Clinic’s Philanthropy Department.
To learn more about Camp Wheez, click here.