Sweetlings: A Holistic Care Program for Children with Type 1 Diabetes

 

For the past fifteen years, the Hirabai Cowasji Jehangir Medical Research Institute (HCJMRI) has been running a charitable initiative dedicated to supporting children diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes (T1DM). This program, made possible through the generous support of our donors, addresses the growing challenge of T1DM in India.

According to the International Diabetes Federation, India now has the highest number of both new and existing cases of Type 1 Diabetes in the world. With an annual increase of approximately 3%, it has become one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting children.

 

The Sweetlings Program: A Comprehensive Approach

 

Our initiative, known as Sweetlings, offers an integrated rehabilitation and care model that supports children and their families on multiple fronts. We work in close collaboration with pediatricians, endocrinologists, dietitians, diabetes educators, psychologists, social workers, peer educators, and volunteers to ensure a well-rounded and sustained support system.

Every Saturday, the Sweetlings Clinic provides free, high-quality care to underprivileged children at Jehangir Hospital. To date, more than 850 children have benefited from the program.

 

Key Services and Activities Throughout the Year:

 

• Medical consultations and regular monitoring

• Blood sugar and HbA1C testing

• Diabetes education and awareness sessions

• Nutrition counselling

• Provision of insulin, glucometers, and test strips

• Daily blood sugar tracking through health diaries

• Annual comprehensive health check-ups

• Travel allowances for families in need

• Home visits by trained social workers

• School visits to support diabetes management in educational settings

• Psychological counselling for children and families

• 24/7 helpline for emergency support and guidance

• Educational and engagement activities for children

• Monthly support groups and thematic group counselling (e.g., motivation, recipe demos, sex education, lifestyle management)

• Biannual recreational events for children

• Support and empowerment programs for youth aged 18–22, promoting independence through collaboration with counsellors, NGOs, and volunteers

• Regular interdisciplinary meetings to optimize patient care

• Patient follow-up groups led by healthcare workers

• Ongoing Training of Trainers sessions for capacity building

• Certified Diabetes Education Course for healthcare professionals

• Skill development and vocational guidance

 

Program Objectives:

 

• Objective 1: Holistic Support for Every Child
  Every enrolled child receives comprehensive, individualized care that supports physical, emotional, and educational well-being.

• Objective 2: Prevention of Diabetes-Related Complications
  Through consistent follow-up and health tracking, the team monitors changes and intervenes early to prevent long-term complications.

• Objective 3: Ongoing Diabetes Education and Awareness
  Education is a continuous focus. Each child receives tailored counselling and guidance from our dedicated team of doctors, educators, counsellors, and social workers.

Cognitive function and mental health in children and youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and its determinants.