One of the greatest achievements of any project is seeing its impact extend beyond its original borders. For the DiaPS – Diabetes and Sport Peer Support project, that impact has now reached India.

During the May edition of the Type One Run/Walk organised by Diabuddies of Karnataka in Bangalore, members of the local Type 1 Diabetes community had the opportunity to learn more about the DiaPS initiative, its educational resources, and the newly launched mobile application.

The event, held on 16 May at Cubbon Park, brought together people living with Type 1 Diabetes and their caregivers for a morning dedicated to movement, connection, and community spirit. Participants completed a 5-kilometre run/walk before gathering for conversations, experience-sharing, and activities designed to strengthen support networks among people living with diabetes.

Building connections across continents

The DiaPS project was introduced by Jelisaveta Fotić, who has been involved in both the previous Sports & Diabetes initiatives and the current DiaPS project. Having followed the development of the project from its early stages, she shared information about the educational materials created through the project and demonstrated the DiaPS application to participants.

The interest shown by children, young athletes, parents, and caregivers confirmed that the challenges addressed by DiaPS are universal. Whether in Europe or India, people living with Type 1 Diabetes face similar questions about sport, glucose management, confidence, and participation.

A community that understands

Reflecting on the event, Jelisaveta highlighted the importance of peer support and community:

“One of the most powerful feelings in the Type 1 Diabetes journey is realising that you are not alone. Seeing children openly talk about their sensors, pumps, favourite hypo snacks, and sporting activities reminds us how important it is to create spaces where people feel understood and supported.”

The event created exactly that kind of environment, allowing participants to exchange experiences, learn from one another, and build new friendships within the diabetes community.

The DiaPS journey continues

What started as a European initiative has grown into a resource that is attracting interest from diabetes communities around the world. Seeing the DiaPS guidebook and mobile application being shared with athletes and families in India is a powerful reminder of the importance of accessible information, peer support, and international collaboration.

As the DiaPS community continues to grow, we are excited to see new connections being formed across countries, cultures, and continents — united by a shared belief that diabetes should never be a barrier to sport and an active lifestyle.