History
Louisiana Pulmonary Disease Camp Incorporated (LPDCI) is a non-profit organization founded in 1976 by a group of respiratory therapists, nurses and physicians to promote an appreciation of the plight of children with chronic and debilitating lung diseases, also for organizing and funding activities for recreation and education of these children.
The organization serves over 100 children per year including children with cystic fibrosis (a chronic debilitating disease of the lungs and digestive system), children who are ventilator assisted, children with severe and chronic asthma and many others. Some activities include a week-long summer camp program - Camp Pelican, family functions, annual picnics, and parties, as well as, special assistance to children and families. LPDCI is proud to offer these activities at no cost to the participants.
Our first camping session, called Camp Sunshine, was held in 1978, in Lacombe, Louisiana and was attended by about 30 campers and staff. In 1985, due to a conflict
with another local camp, our name changed to Camp Pelican.
In 1986, we had our first ventilator assisted camper. In 1988, our camp program met the many standards of the American Camping Association and became an accredited camp. After using several facilities and many changes, we have found our home in Leesville, Louisiana at the Louisiana Lions Camp.
