Launch of Project DREAMS by Mohanlal: Phase III of the P. Kesavadev Trust's Type 1 Diabetes Awareness Program.

The third phase of type 1 education and awareness program by P.Kesavadev Trust, called DREAMS (Diabetes Resources Education & Awareness Advocacy Mentorship and Support) was launched on Monday, 25 September 2023 at Kesavadev Hall in Trivandrum. This transformative initiative is designed to raise awareness among the public, provide vital support for individuals battling type 1 diabetes, and educate parents and teachers about this critical health condition. The launch event was graced by the presence of Malayalam actor and director Padma Bhushan Shri Mohanlal, who inaugurated the event by presenting ‘Dreams Smart Kits’ to three Type 1 kids. The kits include a glucometer, strips, lancets, resource materials, mug, bags, logbook, fast-acting sugar etc.

Project DREAMS represents a comprehensive approach to Type 1 diabetes care and management. It aims to empower individuals with type 1 diabetes to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives by providing holistic support, structured education, advocacy efforts, and collaboration with government authorities. Through peer support, awareness campaigns, educational initiatives, and resource materials from national and international authorities, the project seeks to bridge critical gaps in T1D management.

Key components of Project DREAMS include, (1) Dreams Diabetes Academy: an online platform offering comprehensive diabetes education through webinars, courses, and workshops led by healthcare professionals; (2) The Dream Squad: a 24/7 support system providing immediate assistance via a helpline number and WhatsApp group, later expanded to include trained educators and local support centers; (3) Dreams Type 1 Registry: a collaboration with hospitals and local government to develop and assess a comprehensive registry of type 1 diabetes cases in Kerala, aimed at improving data accuracy and patient care; (4) Sweet Buddy Program: peer mentoring by experienced type 1 diabetes individuals, fostering community and alleviating anxiety for the newly diagnosed; (5) Dreams School- Parent-teacher events focusing on type 1 diabetes management and support strategies.

The Dreams Type 1 Registry was inaugurated by the honourable Education Minister of Kerala, Shri V Sivankutty. The registry aims to create a structured and comprehensive database of type 1 Diabetes cases in the region, addressing the current lack of organization and systematic management. During his inaugural speech, Shri V Sivankutty emphasized the government's commitment to providing a better education environment for T1D students and acknowledged the importance of scientific education, highlighting the significance of the DREAMS project.

Dreams Diabetes Academy was inaugurated by the honorable Minister of Higher Education, Smt. R. Bindu. This online platform offers comprehensive diabetes education and is set to make a significant impact on T1D children's lives. The Minister expressed the government's commitment to support maximum number of T1D children through ongoing government projects.

The event witnessed the participation of more than 100 children with their families, and representatives from Type 1 Diabetic Welfare Society, and Type 1 Diabetes Foundation, who spoke about the importance of such initiatives. Ms.Priyanaka Rai, Director of policy, global access, JDRF International and Country Director, India, Dr.Banshi Saboo, Regional Chair- Elect, IDF and Dr.Shashank R Joshi, Chair of IDF South East Asia spoke at the event. Dr. Jothydev Kesavadev, Managing Trustee, P.Kesavadev Trust welcomed the gathering. Sunitha Jothydev offered vote of thanks. Dr. Arun Shankar and Gopika Krishnan spoke at the event.