TYPE 1 DIABETES (T1D), once known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic auto-immune condition in which insulin-producing beta cells are mistakenly destroyed by the body’s own immune system. T1D occurs primarily in children and young adults (0-20 years). Despite all the advancements in science, T1D does not have a cure. Once detected, the only way to continue to function for the rest of their lives is through injecting insulin (4 -6 injections a day) and by mandatorily checking their blood sugar levels at least 4 times a day to avoid complications that occur due to uncontrolled high and low sugar levels.
Treatment is also directed toward controlling the amount of sugar in the blood through diet and lifestyle management. There are 9 million people living with T1D across the world, and there are 2.5 lakh children (0-18 years) in India alone.
Last year marked the 100th anniversary of the discovery of Insulin which gave hope to those suffered from this deadly form of diabetes. To commemorates this occasion and in recognition, compassion and to create awareness about T1D, Chennai Runners has taken it up as this year’s charity cause. The proceeds of the funds raised through this charity will benefit the children from economically backward families suffering from T1D. As part of creating awareness, we will also focus and celebrate runners with T1D. We are hoping that this way, we are able to inspire children with T1D to lead normal lives and also motivate them to take up regular physical activity to manage it.