Friends Forever – Support Group Meet July 2025

The programme began with a formal introduction by Dr. Shanthirani, Senior Scientist, Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Madras Diabetes Research Foundation. This was followed by an informative session by Dr. Samuel Sathweek, Consultant Diabetologist, on critical topics such as hypoglycaemia unawareness and diabetic ketoacidosis. He presented these insightful topics using real case studies, enabling the audience to relate to them more effectively. Dr. Rajalakshmi, Ophthalmologist, then delivered a keen and thoughtful session on diabetic eye care and the importance of regular eye screening.

After the educative and informative sessions, an award recognition ceremony was held to honour achievers in various fields despite living with diabetes. This segment celebrated the dedication, strength, and accomplishments of individuals who have excelled in their personal and professional lives while managing diabetes with resilience and determination.

From battling Type 1 diabetes since the tender age of 1 to emerging as a rising star in academics and sports, Hariraj’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. Despite the daily challenges of living with diabetes from such a young age, he continues to shine with incredible talent and determination. Whether excelling in chess tournaments or facing life with resilience far beyond his years, Hariraj proves that age and circumstances can never limit dreams. He secured 4th place in district-level chess tournaments and 2nd place in the boys’ under-15 category.

From the streets of Gobichettipalayam, a small village in Tamil Nadu, to the global stage, Harichandran has transformed personal struggles into a mission for change. Living with both Type 1 diabetes and physical challenges, he has become a fearless voice for grassroots communities, ensuring no one is left behind in the fight for better healthcare. Affected by polio at a tender age, he underwent multiple surgeries to regain mobility in his limbs. His passion for cricket took him to the National Cricket Team for the Physically Challenged, where he represented India. During his cricketing years, he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Later, as Team Manager of the Indian Cricket Team, he saw India win multiple tournaments in various countries. His inspiring journey has been shared at the World Health Summit Regional Meeting and he has also been invited to narrate his story at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Mr. Prashanth Mani — a true changemaker and champion for the Type 1 diabetes community — is recognised as an extraordinary individual whose life journey reflects resilience, service, and leadership. Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of 18, he transformed his personal challenges into a mission to serve others. As the Founder President of the Tamil Nadu Type 1 Diabetes Foundation and General Secretary of the Type 1 Diabetes Foundation of India, he has dedicated himself to building support systems, spreading education, and advocating for policy changes to improve the lives of thousands of people living with diabetes across India. His tireless efforts in creating awareness, conducting workshops, and nurturing patient communities have made a meaningful difference at the grassroots level.

The cultural performances by children with Type 1 diabetes were a delight. Miss Gowshika mesmerised the audience with a graceful Bharathanatyam performance, Ms. Harshavardhini lifted the crowd’s spirits with her inspiring and uplifting speech, and Master Ashwith Aron gave a powerful display of Silambam, our traditional martial art.

Dr. Ashish Mendhi – Project Director of Hinduja Foundation, motivated the children to normalise conversations about Type 1 diabetes. He encouraged them to speak openly about it, whether in school, college, or other platforms, not just on social media. He also addressed the dangers of so-called alternative medicines and stressed how normalising Type 1 diabetes can prevent the promotion of such harmful practices in the market.

Dr. V. Mohan spoke about advancements in diabetes care, tracing the journey from the discovery of insulin to today’s automated insulin pumps like Tandem, Minimed, and Omnipod. He shared the inspiring story of Gary Hall Jr., a swimmer who won three Olympic gold medals after being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. He encouraged children by saying that Type 1 diabetes simply gives them the choice to be more disciplined and healthier compared to others.

Gifts and prizes were distributed to the performers, followed by a group photo with Dr. V. Mohan, Dr. Ashish Mendhi, Dr. Anjana, and other staff from DMDSC and MDRF, along with the children with Type 1 diabetes. The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. A. Amutha, and the programme concluded with lunch.