UDAAN’s Monsoon T1D Trek

The Trek 

Our spirited group of 90 incredible champions, all living with Type 1 Diabetes, embarked on an 18 km trek from Aurangabad Caves to Daulatabad Fort and successfully completed this awe-inspiring journey together.

The Goal 

The purpose of this trek, and our annual tradition, is threefold. First and foremost, it’s about empowering each young participant to overcome personal fears and limitations, allowing them to see themselves as heroes. Secondly, it’s about advocacy – raising awareness among society, media, and policymakers about the strength and resilience of those living with T1D. Lastly, UDAAN aims to develop self-care protocols for monitoring, snacking, and insulin dose adjustments during the trek to achieve optimal control.

The Preparation 

Participants began preparing by walking and climbing stairs daily, keeping their blood sugar levels in range, and honing their skills in carb counting and insulin dose calculation. Each trekker knew their Insulin Sensitivity Factor (ISF) and Insulin-to-Carb Ratio (ICR) and could calculate a bolus dose when needed. A detailed dose management protocol was shared, accounting for the unaccustomed exercise starting the night before the trek. It's worth noting that many of these young trekkers come from the villages of Marathwada! Each carried five packs of healthy, carb-counted snacks, medical supplies, including glucometers and strips, insulin, and glucose tabs. Accompanying doctors carried emergency medical care, including glucagon injections.

The Team  

Entire UDAAN team – founders, trustees, doctors, and educators – trekked alongside the participants. The backbone of our trek was Everester Rafiq Sheikh and his team of six, who guided and supported us throughout. Riddhi Modi who is a  IDF Blue circle Global voice ,came from Mumbai as a guest but in no time became a part of the family. She encouraged,guided, shared and won UDAAN’s heart ! The group was divided into teams, each with a team leader ensuring everyone was looked after. The camaraderie was heartwarming, with endless laughter and care for each child.

The Experience 

The trek began with the release of blue and white balloons by the city’s renowned industrialists. Participants proudly held placards announcing their strength of living with T1D. The amazement and curiosity from onlookers were evident, as many couldn’t believe these resilient kids had T1D. The six-hour journey was filled with thrill, laughter, a touch of danger, new friendships, discipline, and freedom. Hourly blood sugar level checking breaks were moments of both medical necessity and joyful selfies.

The descent was steep and challenging, with trekkers tying a rope and descending in single file, adrenaline pumping. Yet, the beauty lay in the support each provided to the other. Nature brought out the best in everyone.

The Finish

By 2 pm, tired yet elated, everyone completed the trek. A refreshing lemonade and a nutritious, carb-counted lunch awaited them. Replenished, they shared their feelings, especially the first-timers, whose eyes shone with excitement and smiles. Phone numbers were exchanged, new friendships were formed, and everyone went home with happy hearts and tired legs. They slept with smiles on their faces, but not before checking their sugars and adjusting their doses.

Together…we CAN.