Action4Diabetes: Inspired by Passion, Anchored in Dedication

Rachel Teoh
Sep 29
11 min read

Action4Diabetes (A4D) celebrates 10 years of impact this year, and at the heart of this journey are our partner healthcare professionals who make it possible. Without their dedication, expertise, and compassion, our mission to transform Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) care across Southeast Asia could not become a reality.

This feature is the third part of our 10th Anniversary series. We kicked-off with our origin story with our co-founders and first A4D staff, followed by the spotlight on our valued partners.

In the 7 countries where we are present, Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand, doctors, nurses, and medical teams walk alongside children and young people with T1D every day. They are the ones who face the urgent challenges, provide life-saving treatment, and witness the life-changing difference that comes with access to insulin, medical supplies, the right T1D education and support.

In this series, we honour some of these amazing healthcare professionals, their stories reflect not only the impact achieved together, but also the hope and determination to build a brighter future for every child living with T1D.

Cambodia

Prof Iv Malene, Deputy-Director of Kantha Bopha Children’s Hospital, Phnom Penh.

“My hope is that every child with Type 1 Diabetes in Cambodia can live a normal life and grow to their fullest potential.”

Prof Malene has been working with A4D since 2018, but her journey with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) care began much earlier. At Kantha Bopha Children’s Hospital, she and her colleagues have been diagnosing and treating children with T1D since 1997. In those early days, many of the those newly diagnosed first arrive in critical condition, often in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). At a time when awareness of childhood diabetes was very low, she realised that with the right care and treatment, these young T1Ds not only recovered but were able to grow up and live well despite their lifelong condition.

The collaboration with A4D brought new opportunities to strengthen care. In 2018, the very first T1D Family Camp was held in Phnom Penh, and at that time it was a new and exciting way for T1Ds and their families to learn more about managing this condition and learning to live well with it. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when face-to-face gatherings were not possible, the partnership shifted towards developing HelloType1 Cambodia, a T1D educational resource in the Khmer language, making T1D education and information more accessible to all. Over the years, we have also been able to have training workshops to build capacity and empower T1D healthcare professionals across the country.

Prof Malene thinks fondly of a young adult from Siem Reap when she thinks about this partnership. Coming from a very poor family, he received financial support through A4D for critical eye treatment and vocational training as a tailor. With this support, his quality of life improved, and he was able to look forward to a brighter future.

Laos

Dr Khaysy Rassavong, Mahosot Hospital, Vientiane, Laos

“My hope is that A4D's programme will continue to grow and support more young people with T1D in Laos, helping them achieve a better and more sustainable quality of life.”

Dr. Khaysy has been working with A4D since the charity first entered Laos in 2016 and became involved with Mahosot Hospital. A long-standing commitment to child health led him to focus on Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) and develop the partnership with A4D. This partnership has helped those living with T1D in Laos gain access to insulin and crucial medical supplies as well as the right T1D education to manage their blood sugar more effectively thus making it possible for those with T1D to live better and more fulfilling lives.

The partnership with A4D has brought significant change to those living with T1D in Laos over the last few years. There are now insulin analogues as an option for improved T1D management. Beyond life-saving access to insulin and medical supplies, yearly T1D camps also provide access to the right T1D education, confidence, and a sense of community—empowering them to take charge of their own health and improve their quality of life.

Dr. Khaysy recalls one child, before joining the A4D programme, was isolated and unmotivated to manage their T1D, unable to attend school or even learn to read and write. With the support of the partner doctors at Mahosot and A4D, this young person found purpose and hope again and began learning basic writing skills and, most importantly, returned to school. This transformation is a powerful reminder that the impact of this partnership extends beyond medical treatment, it has the ability to allow those living with T1D, dream and work toward a bright future.

Malaysia

Prof Dr Muhammad Yazid bin Jalaludin, University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), Kuala Lumpur

“My hope for the future is that every young person with T1D in Malaysia will have equal access to insulin analogues, new technologies, and education so they can live healthy, fulfilling lives without fear of complications or stigma. Together, we can give every child the chance to thrive and reach their full potential.”

Prof. Yazid has been involved with A4D since 2021, initially as part of the regional healthcare professional network and advisory group. In October 2024, he took on the role of Medical Advisor on a volunteer basis. His commitment to T1D care is driven by a deep passion for improving the lives of those living with the condition. Having seen the struggles faced by families in Malaysia and across Southeast Asia, especially because limited access to crucial medical supplies such as insulin, monitoring tools, as well as structured T1D care, Prof. Yazid has dedicated himself to advancing equitable healthcare. He believes that no child should suffer due to a lack of resources and is determined to empower patients through education and support.

He appreciates that A4D is working to transform T1D care in Malaysia by ensuring consistent access to free blood glucose monitoring supplies, and essential medical care and support for those living with T1D. By collaborating with local healthcare professionals, A4D bridges critical healthcare gaps and empowers families with the tools and knowledge to manage T1D effectively through HelloType1 Malaysia. These programmes not only reduce the risk of life-threatening complications and improve treatment adherence, but also promote long-term health outcomes. Beyond direct medical aid, A4D raises awareness through a strong social media presence and fosters stronger healthcare networks—building sustainable improvements in T1D care nationwide.

Prof Yazid shares the story of a young girl from an urban poor community who once fought a silent battle with T1D. Her family could not afford the care and the blood glucose monitoring supplies, and frequent hospital visits became the norm. Life changed dramatically when A4D stepped in, providing consistent access to blood glucose monitoring supplies, and dedicated medical support. Her health stabilised, she regained her energy, and today she is thriving in school and inspiring others with her story. For Prof. Yazid, her journey is a powerful reminder that with the right support, every child can dream again.

Myanmar

Prof. Ko Ko, President of Myanmar Society of Endocrine and Metabolism, Professor and Head of University of Medicine 1, Yangon

"A4D’s programmes have not only improved T1D care and access, but also restored confidence and hope for young people with T1D and their families across Myanmar.”

Prof Ko Ko and his team have been working with A4D since the very beginning in early 2015, marking 10 years of collaboration in improving care for children and young people living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) in Myanmar. His journey into T1D care began with a deeply moving experience: a child arriving in severe DKA after hours of travel to get to medical care. Witnessing the struggles families faced with access to care and medical supplies inspired him to focus on T1D. Since then, he has dedicated himself to creating practical education programmes and sustainable systems to ensure that every young person in Myanmar receives a timely diagnosis, consistent treatment, and the confidence to manage their condition.

Through his work, Prof. Ko Ko has seen how A4D has transformed T1D care in Myanmar. Targeted training workshops have strengthened health capacity, improving early diagnosis and standardising management protocols in designated partner hospitals. Reliable insulin supply chains, developed through A4D’s partnership, have provided life-saving stability for families, while culturally tailored education through HelloType1 Myanmar have empowered them to manage daily regimens with confidence. Beyond clinical support, peer groups have reduced stigma and improved adherence, resulting in fewer hospital admissions and better long-term outcomes.

One of the most memorable examples for Prof Ko Ko is a 14-year-old boy from the Mandalay region, initially presenting in severe DKA, his family had little knowledge of T1D management. Through a community workshop supported by A4D , his parents learned safe injection techniques, carbohydrate counting, and how to build a daily regimen. The boy also joined a peer support group, reducing the family’s sense of isolation. Within six months, his HbA1c improved from 12% to 7.5%, he returned to school full-time, and began mentoring younger children. His transformation reflects the impact of A4D’s integrated training and support model.

Prof Ko Ko looks to a future where all young people in Myanmar with T1D have equal access to insulin, technology, and the right T1D education, allowing them to live full lives without stigma or preventable complications. He envisions strong multidisciplinary networks, supported by policy and community leaders, alongside peer mentorship and digital health tools that guide young people from diagnosis through adulthood. His ultimate goal is for every child and teenager with T1D in Myanmar to thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Philippines

Dr. Jedeanne Aragorn, Philippine Society of Paediatric Metabolism and Endocrinology (PSPME), Philippines

“A4D has brought hope and practical support to those living with T1D in the Philippines by making T1D care and education more accessible, we are helping these T1Ds not just survive, but to thrive.”

Dr. Jedeanne Aragorn, first connected with Action4Diabetes (A4D) in October 2023 in the capacity of President of PSPME, when we were exploring the start of our work in the Philippines. Since then, she is actively involved in activities to support A4D’s work in improving the lives of those living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). Her motivation to dedicate herself to T1D care stems from seeing the daily struggles families face that range from medical to financial, and even emotional. She describes the strength of the children as her inspiration, driving her to provide not only treatment, but also guidance and education, to improve access to T1D care thus making their T1D more manageable.

Since A4D began its work in the Philippines, Dr. Jedeanne has witnessed the positive impact on many T1Ds and their families. A4D’s programmes provide consistent T1D care and medical supplies as well as education and support through the HelloType1 Philippines platform. The videos, posters, and practical information in local language has made learning engaging and relatable for both T1Ds and caregivers alike.

One story that stands out for Dr. Jedeanne because it reflects the plight of so many in the Philippines, is a 14-year-old girl from Laguna. This young patient, living with her grandparents since her parents separated, and learning to managing her T1D on her own. She was hospitalised with serious infections due to antibiotic resistant bacteria, at her insulin injection sites. These infections required incisions and debridement of the wounds which was made more difficult for someone living with T1D. Her biggest hurdle is her blood glucose control, she reports experiencing hypoglycaemia at home, but her HbA1c levels reflect otherwise and the lack of proper monitoring due to financial reasons made her T1D management even more difficult. Through A4D’s Clinic Support Programme, she was provided with a reliable glucometer, test strips, and lancets, and was given the right education on how she should be monitoring which greatly aided her treatment and recovery. She is also going to receive insulin supplies, which will ease the family’s financial burden. With the right care and support, her recovery has been made possible, offering a glimpse of a healthier, more hopeful future.

Looking ahead, Dr. Jedeanne hopes that every young person in the Philippines with T1D will have access to essential medical supplies, care, and education. She envisions a future where children grow up healthy and confident, supported by their families, schools, and communities and able to dream without limits.

Thailand

Asst Professor Pathikan Dissaneevate, Hatyai Hospital, Thailand

“I want to see a future where no child is left behind and every young person with Type 1 Diabetes

feels empowered to pursue their dreams with confidence and security,”

Asst Prof. Pathikan shared that his motivation to focus on Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) care comes from recognising the immense challenges children and young people face in accessing essential T1D medical supplies, care, and emotional support. He was inspired to bridge these gaps, helping young people not only survive but thrive, while building connections with families and healthcare professionals along the way. Working with A4D since 2016 has been a part of the journey for him.

A4D’s presence in Thailand strengthens T1D care by ensuring a consistent access to life-saving medical supplies, and creating stronger networks among healthcare professionals. Beyond medical supplies and resources, he is grateful that the A4D partnership has also improved communication between families and doctors, allowing for better long-term T1D management. This holistic support has enabled those with T1D to live healthier, more confident lives while reducing the uncertainty their families face.

Asst Prof. Pathikan shares the story of a teenager from a provincial hospital whose family struggled to afford and access test strips. Before A4D’s support, infrequent access to medical supplies because of financial and logistic barriers caused serious medical crises and disrupted his schooling. With a consistent provision of medical supplies and regular follow-up through A4D’s programme, his blood glucose levels stabilised, and he was able to return to school with renewed confidence. This change brought hope not only to the young boy but also to his entire family.

Asst Prof. Pathikan hopes that in the future, every child living with T1D in Thailand will have equal access to quality T1D healthcare, medical supplies, and the right education regardless of their financial situation or geographical barriers.

Vietnam

Dr Bui Phuong Thao., Vietnam National Children’s Hospital, Hanoi

“With A4D’s support, children with T1D in Vietnam are gaining confidence and living healthier lives. My hope is that one day, every young person with T1D here will have the same opportunities as their peers, to study, to play, and to dream without fear of their condition holding them back.”

Dr. Thao has been treating children with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) at the Center for Endocrinology, Metabolism, Genetics, and Molecular Therapy, Vietnam National Children’s Hospital in Hanoi for nearly three decades. Over the last four years, he has worked closely with A4D in providing care and support for young people living with T1D in Hanoi.

His commitment to T1D care began early in his medical journey. While studying at Leningrad Pediatric Medical University, he co-authored a paper on childhood diabetes in 1992. Later, during his graduate studies at the University of Melbourne, he published research on diabetic ketoacidosis in Pediatric Diabetes in 2002. These early experiences shaped his lifelong dedication to improving outcomes for children with T1D.

Reflecting on 30 years of working with T1D, Dr. Thao recalls how children with T1D in the 1990s often struggled without proper food, insulin, or monitoring equipment. Some missed doses intentionally due to fear or stigma, and preventable complications were tragically common. Today, thanks to socioeconomic progress and the partnership with A4D, those living with T1D in Vietnam have far better access to T1D medical supplies like insulin, glucometers, and test strips. This has led to improved health and increased quality of life. Children can now attend school more regularly, live more confidently, and aspire to have better futures.

Dr Thao shares the story of a young boy, when diagnosed his parents felt as though their entire world had collapsed, their little boy, still so young and innocent, had to get used to insulin injections and constant blood sugar checks before he even had the chance to fully enjoy his childhood. The financial burden and emotional weight weighed heavily on them. In the midst of that difficult time, this family received support from A4D through Dr Thao’s team at VNCH, boxes of blood glucose test strips along with deep empathy and care. These supplies helped them monitor their son’s health closely and respond quickly to any abnormalities. The educational materials from A4D’s HelloType1 Vietnam became the family's “guidebook,” easing anxiety and helping to navigate this challenging journey. Today this young goes to school, plays, and enjoys every precious moment of his childhood.

Looking into the future, Dr. Thao hopes those living with T1D will receive the necessary T1D care, medical supplies, education and tools they need to manage their T1D with independence. He envisions a future where they can calculate carbohydrates, adjust insulin flexibly, and pursue their dreams without limitation, as he references role models like Alexander Zverev, the German tennis star who thrives in spite of his T1D diagnosis as a child.

This series has highlighted the passion, dedication, and impact of healthcare professionals across Southeast Asia who work tirelessly alongside A4D to improve the lives of children and young people with Type 1 Diabetes. In each country, every story reflects both the challenges and the progress made possible through collaboration, compassion, and commitment.

A4D is grateful for each and every partner healthcare professional we work with and we are committed together with all our partner doctors, nurses, and medical advisors to ensure that every T1D has the opportunity to live fully, dream boldly, and thrive.