26 people with diabetes successfully surmount 13,000 ft in Himalayas

Sanofi India along with Diabetes India stepped up the initiative with a bigger challenge this year with ‘India’s 2nd T1D Challenge 2018 – OneUp Trek’

Twenty six young Indians with type 1 diabetes (T1D) surmounted the breathtaking Chandrakhani Pass at 13,000 ft. in the Himalayas, proving that anyone with this disease can pursue challenges that otherwise seem impossible. With last year’s success of the first T1D Challenge held in Maharashtra (at 5400 ft.), Sanofi India along with Diabetes India stepped up the initiative with a bigger challenge this year with ‘India’s 2nd T1D Challenge 2018 – OneUp Trek’.

Young trekkers aged 15 to 30 years from 16 cities across India, participated in this challenge to bring type 1 diabetes to the fore, and bust myths about the disease.

N Rajaram, Managing Director, Sanofi India said, “Sanofi India introduced the ‘OneUp Trek’ to empower children with type 1 diabetes and give them the opportunity to explore their potential in an encouraging and supportive environment.”

Dr Banshi Saboo, Diabetologist and Executive Secretary, Diabetes India, said,“Coming from diverse backgrounds and different parts of the country, these 26 young trekkers united to establish one fact that ‘nothing is impossible’. Discipline is the key, which comes with a controlled diet, regular monitoring of blood sugar and timely insulin.”

An essential part of each participant’s trekking gear was a compact diabetes kit containing a glucometer, insulin and syringes or an insulin pen. During the trek, they had to monitor their blood sugar at least seven times a day to make sure it was well controlled. All meals were planned in advance to ensure a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates and fat.

Dr S Sadikot, President, International Diabetes Foundation added, “This initiative not only aims to reinforce confidence, but also to dispel misconceptions around the disease. Any physical activity for people with Type 1 diabetes would require careful planning and monitoring. All the participants have shown tremendous discipline and courage in taking on this challenge head-on, and I am very proud of their accomplishment.”