Dr. Robert Berke is pictured presenting a check to Camp Onyahsa officials for the camp’s week for children with Type 1 diabetes. Submitted photo

The seventh Big Fish Triathlon to support Camp Onyahsa’s week of camping for children with Type 1 diabetes raised $13,000.

During their stay, children get to enjoy all of the camps fun traditional activities, in addition to enhanced health care from a specialized team of nurses, pharmacists, pump experts and counselors who provide supervision and also allow the parents one week out of the year to relax with the knowledge that their children are in a safe environment away from home.

A diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes changes the life of a child forever. Days filled with school, sports and activities are quickly replaced by blood tests, insulin injections and carbohydrate calculations. Every step required to manage their diabetes is a step away from what children see as “normal,” according to triathlon organizers.

The Big Fish Triathlon has raised $79,489.08 over the last seven years, with plans for an eighth annual event in 2020.

Dr Robert Berke, race director, and the Triathlon Coalition thanked the triathletes for their participation, the event sponsors for their donations and volunteers who donated their time. For more information, visit www.bigfishtriathlon.com.