Welcome to ACT1D, where our mission is to transform the lives of children with Type 1 Diabetes. As a non-governmental organization based in Chandigarh, India, we are dedicated to providing underprivileged children access to education and medication for a healthier tomorrow. In India, the most crucial reason for the poor health and lack of proper treatment of individuals living with T1D is the cost of the treatment. At the least, the treatment costs INR 4,000-5,000/month which is a recurring cost over the life of the individual. Many parents with children living with T1D are not able to afford treatment. Children develop issues of slow growth, repeated hospitalizations due to acute complications, poor school performance, personal and family stress, complications of diabetes at a very early age and rarely death due to inadequate/unaffordability of treatment. We aim to provide free medication to most children of families under the poverty line till the children can earn themselves such that they can live a healthy and happy childhood.

Our holistic approach addresses both educational and medical needs, fostering a caring community through collaborations with healthcare professionals, families, and volunteers. Over the years, we've witnessed numerous success stories, thanks to the support of compassionate individuals like you. Your contributions, be it through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, play a vital role in our transformative journey. Today, we help over 200 children have a healthier childhood.

Explore our initiatives, access valuable resources on Type 1 Diabetes, and join us on social media to stay connected. Together, let's continue #ChangingLives and shaping a brighter, healthier future for children with Type 1 Diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells leading on to absolute insulin deficiency and high blood sugar with its adverse effects. Although T1D can occur at any age, most cases are diagnosed during childhood or adolescence. According to the recent data from the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), there were over 1.1 million children between the ages (0-19) years in 2019 (data from International Diabetes Federation; 2019 Atlas). Out of this 1.7 lac, children and adolescents with T1D are in India alone. There are more than 1500 children/adolescents registered in Pediatric Diabetes Clinic at Advanced Pediatric Centre, PGIMER, Chandigarh.

Children with Type 1 Diabetes face unique challenges, including the constant need for blood sugar monitoring, dietary restrictions, and the emotional impact of managing a chronic condition. They are required to take at least 4 injections every day and regularly prick their fingers to check their sugar levels. While there are technologies like insulin pumps and more that can help manage diabetes, the financial burden of such technology is often very high. School life poses challenges in terms of explaining their condition to peers and teachers, while participation in physical activities requires careful planning. The financial strain of diabetes management can be burdensome for families, and as children transition into adolescence, they must learn to take on more responsibility for their self-care. Despite these challenges, fostering understanding, support, and creating an inclusive environment is crucial for these children to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.