Diabetic patients have to take insulin thrice-a-day. It costs Rs 4,000 per month. Many people do not take treatment due to poor financial condition. Due to which, Dr Archana Sarda, diabetologist has adopted 540 children, who suffer from type 1 diabetes, by sponsoring their treatment.
These children belong to farmer’s family. Their parents cannot afford the cost of the treatment, owing to poor financial condition. Since 19 years, Dr Sarda has been taking care of these children selflessly like a mother.
Speaking to My Medical Mantra, Dr Archana Sarda, diabetologist said, “The percentage of type 1 diabetes in children, residing in the villages was increasing. Treatment was unaffordable due financial constraints. So, I decided to do something for these children with type 1 diabetes, by providing them free insulin and medical treatment. In the year 1998, there were only one to two children. Later, the number went up to 540.”
She added, “We have established an NGO named ‘Udaan’. The treatment is provided from the funds we get. In every week, on Friday and Saturday, I undertake check-up of these children. Children who come to me belong to the weaker section of the society. Even they have the right to live. Therefore, the government should give free insulin to the diabetic patients in government and municipal hospitals.”
Dr Sarda informed, besides, the family members have been given training to give them insulin. According to which, these caretakers are teaching other children. There are 15 caretakers and 1 caretaker takes care of 25 children.
Few children adopted by Dr Sarda are now married and are doing well in their respective field. Still, they haven’t forgotten her and visit her to seek treatment.
Akhil Khan, an Aurangabad resident, who was the first one to be adopted by Dr Sarda said, “I was 14-years-old, when I was diagnosed with diabetes. Due to financial crisis, I couldn’t afford the treatment. Dr Sarda adopted me and took care of my treatment and education. Still the treatment is going on and various tests have are been performed after 15 days. Dr Sarda is like a mother to me. Despite of suffering from diabetes, I have learnt karate.”