What is the Emory Metabolic Camp?

The 30th Annual Metabolic Camp at Emory University will take place June 10-15, 2024. This one-week summer program—the only national event of its kind—brings 30-40 female campers aged 12 and older with Phenylketonuria (PKU) or Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD) to Emory for nutrition counseling, education, and fellowship to eliminate avoidable Maternal PKU Syndrome (MPKUS). Our research-based camp model takes a holistic approach to the lifelong medical nutrition management of their inherited metabolic disorders (IMDs) and empowers campers to take charge of their futures as they live, learn, and play in a supportive environment.

Metabolic Camp goals include:

• reviewing dietary and medical management recommendations for PKU and MSUD prior to and during pregnancy
• teaching about genetics and IMDs, MPKUS, reproductive health, and family planning
• fostering a support network to share experiences and connect with other females who have PKU or MSUD.
• researching the impact of the above interventions on the transition to adulthood, pregnancy, quality of life, and overall health outcomes

Why we need your support

The full cost of Metabolic Camp—Emory campus lodging, low-protein meals, classes, and activities—is approximately $2,000 per camper. Aware of the financial constraints of patients and families, the camp offers a subsidized camper registration fee of $375 per person. However, many campers still struggle to pay this reduced registration fee. Thanks to generous donor and foundation support, we have been able to accommodate every camper.

Supporting this campaign:

• could allow more girls and women with PKU and MSUD to attend Metabolic Camp, despite financial constraints, by funding camper lodging and meals
• can empower girls and women with PKU and MSUD to independently manage their disorder, to improve their diet adherence
• can educate girls and women about family planning for healthy birth outcomes by funding guest experts, activities, and field trips
• could reduce the isolation of girls and women with PKU and MSUD by connecting them with others living with this rare disorder