But there are people working to change that.
Through the dedication of Tshemba Foundation, a group of committed doctors, nurses, and diabetes advocates like Eksoda are working to improve access to care and education – one person at a time. One of the ways they are doing this is by bringing children living with diabetes together for a very different kind of experience: a specialised camp at Koru Camp.
Last month, we were proud to welcome back Dr Nicole Fiolet and a host of volunteers for our second diabetes-focussed camp, sponsored by the Timbavati Foundation. As the children arrived, they were shy and uncertain at first. “Half of them had never seen another child with diabetes” Dr Fiolet explained.
Living with diabetes can be overwhelming – not only physically, but emotionally. Feelings of fear, confusion, and even shame are common in rural communities. A key part of Tshemba Foundation’s work is not only education, but empowerment: helping young people understand their condition, take control of it, and feel less alone in the process.
Thus, over three days at camp, the children worked closely with trained doctors and nurses. They learned how to monitor their blood glucose levels, understand the role of diet, and safely administer insulin – practical, life-saving skills that build confidence and independence. But just as importantly, they found a connection with each other.
In between important health sessions, there were safaris filled with excitement and discovery, moments of laughter during games, and even a modified version of “Koru Masterchef” – where the children baked their own diabetes-friendly muffins. Each fun activity lightened the mood and helped break through walls of fear and shame. Through them, they shared experiences, built friendships and created a support network that many had never had before.
Dr Fiolet recounted Katy’s story – a young girl who joined our first camp in June 2025.
“Even though she had had diabetes for two years, Katy was still unsure about injecting, so she often skipped insulin. On the first night of camp, I discovered she is actually blind … She cried from her headache, tiredness, and pain in her eyes … but, by the last morning, during the final game drive, she was smiling and chatting with one of the other kids. Mission accomplished.”
That first camp highlighted just how challenging the situation is for many children with diabetes. However, undeterred, the team returned again with a renewed energy and purpose. By the end of our second camp last month, the transformation in each child was as clear as night and day.
“The only thing that exhausted me this time was the fun we had and seeing all the kids thrive –including Katy, who stole the show with her dance moves and big smile… She now knows, for the rest of her life, that she is not alone – and that besides all of us, insulin is her new friend. That’s what a diabetes camp is all about.”
We are truly honoured to be a part of this incredible initiative. By using nature as a backdrop and vehicle for difficult conversations, our camp creates a safe space for these children to grow, learn, and focus on themselves. It is a perfect example of the difference we can make when organisations and individuals collaborate for a shared purpose. Together, we were able to give these children the tools, knowledge, and support that will shape and benefit their lives long after the camp has ended.
As Dr Fiolet puts it, “We share the same goal: no more children dying because of diabetes – through education and essential tools. And above all, to make having diabetes a little bit more fun.”
A heartfelt thank you to:
- Timbavati Foundation for funding the camp and bringing the energy and smile of Riphumelo
- Rey Productions for their support, snack packs, goodie bags, and for sharing real-life experience through Holly Rey
- Tintswalo Hospital for releasing Sr. Thuli, providing a familiar and reassuring presence for the children
- Abbott LibreStyle Sensors for supplying continuous glucose monitors
- Tshemba Foundation for supporting the medical team and providing essential glucometers
- Diabetes Alliance for connecting partners and supporting transport
- Eksoda for your endless commitment to diabetes advocacy and these children
Photos by Holly Rey
