UHS Children’s Summer Camp empowers young patients and families in Serbia

The Serbian Haemophilia Society (UHS) successfully organised its annual Children’s Summer Camp from 4 to 7 July 2025, gathering around 40 attendees, including children living with rare bleeding disorders and their parents. The event provided an enriching blend of education, therapy, and social interaction, tailored to meet the specific needs of young individuals affected by rare bleeding disorders and their families.

Throughout the two-day programme, participants took part in a variety of workshops and sessions focusing on key aspects of rare bleeding disorders care and development. The main topics included:

• Home treatment and self-administration of medication
• New therapies and treatment options in haemophilia
• Prepuberty and puberty
• Oral care and personal oral hygiene
• Physical activity as a daily routine for prevention and rehabilitation
• Growing up and living with rare bleeding disorders
• The role and importance of parental support groups

A significant component of the camp was the practical training in self-administration of medication. Several mothers were successfully trained in home infusion techniques, and some boys managed to apply their treatment independently for the first time, which was a major step towards autonomy in managing their condition.

Each day, participants enjoyed two sessions in the swimming pool, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, guided by a physiotherapist. These sessions not only supported physical therapy goals but also encouraged movement and strength-building in a fun and supportive environment.

Parents were actively involved through direct interaction with lecturers and group discussions, particularly in the parental support group, where experiences and strategies were shared to better navigate life with rare bleeding disorders.

Evenings were dedicated to relaxation and community-building. Families gathered to exchange experiences while children socialised, strengthening bonds through shared stories and play. Evening walks in nearby parks were a daily tradition, and the camp concluded with a joyful visit to a local amusement park, bringing laughter and lightness to an informative and empowering experience.

This year’s camp once again reinforced the value of community, education, and empowerment in managing rare bleeding disorders, not just for the children affected but for their entire support network.