Brittany (Hayes) Wiggins...
Have you wondered what your favorite counselor does for their day job? Or, perhaps you've lost touch with a CDF pal and would love to know what they're up to. Search no more! You can find out here in the alumni spotlight "Where Are They Now?"... Oh, and please remember to email and let us know what you are up to so we can feature YOU too!
1. How many years did you attend camp and what was the last year that you attended?
I attended as a camper for 3 years. The last year I was a camper was Camp's 4th year. After that I was a counselor for around 9 years. 2012 was my last year, but hopefully I'm going to try and come help out in other capacities.
2. What is your favorite camp memory?
There are so many favorite memories to choose from! I remember when we used to play capture the flag down in the big field. Chris Dudley would always play, and everyone would get low but it didn't matter. We also would have a bonfire after and swap low blood sugar stories! It was the best!... I also loved getting to spend the week with my dad, and be on his team or be his assistant when he coached; that was very special!
3. Did you learn anything at camp to improve your diabetes care?
I learned a lot from my fellow campers and counselors about my diabetes like: how to give a shot in my arm, or what test kits are the fastest. I also learned a lot from guest speakers about how to manage diabetes performing different sporting events or activities.
4. Do you stay in contact with anyone you met while attending camp?
I consider the people I met at Camp like a second family! It's great because even when we haven't seen each other in a year we all pick up right where we left off. We have gone to each others' weddings, vacationed together and remain engaged in each others' lives. Some of my closest friends I met through camp!
5. Do you have any advice for present or future campers?
My advice for other campers would be to get involved in all the camp activities you can during and after Camp, stay in touch with campers and staff, and try to get involved with the Dudley Foundation because you may be able to transfer those experiences to your own community!
6. Tell us about yourself since your camper days...
While working at camp I finished undergrad at the U of O, and received my Masters in Counseling Psychology.
I am married and just had my first child this January! I received much support and congratulations from my camp family! I am currently working with children and families with mental health issues and feel my experience at Camp has made me better at what I do.
My family and I moved back to my hometown of Bend, Oregon after living several years in the Portland area. I hope to have the opportunity to introduce my daughter Cora to my camp family soon!