Fueling Our Strength: A Picnic of Champions Cohort II
For many families, a diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) can feel overwhelming due to several factors. Daily insulin injections, constant blood glucose monitoring, misconceptions from society, and the emotional burden of living with a lifelong condition often leave children and caregivers asking a difficult question: Is there hope?
Children and Caregivers at Chefferie de Bapa
The Reconciliation and Development Association (RADA) answered that question with a resounding yes during its two-day Type 1 Diabetes Picnic of Champions, held in Baffoussam from the 25th to the 26th of June 2026 under the theme “Fueling Our Strength: A Picnic of Champions.” Organized with technical and financial support from Panorama Global through the Type 1 Diabetes Community Fund Project, the picnic brought together children and adolescents living with T1D and their caregivers for two days of learning, encouragement, recreation, and healing.
Mr. Ferdinant Sonyuy facilitating on “Managing T1D as a Family“
More than just a recreational outing, the picnic created a safe space where families discovered that they were not alone on their journey. Through diabetes education sessions, psychosocial support, peer interaction, and family-centered discussions, participants gained practical knowledge and renewed confidence to manage Type 1 Diabetes.
The picnic combined wellness and learning through morning fitness activities, routine blood glucose monitoring, diabetes conversations, nutrition education, emotional storytelling, art therapy, and family engagement sessions. These activities equipped both children and caregivers with practical skills while addressing the emotional and psychological challenges that often accompany the condition.
Mme. Nfor Claudette facilitated the session on “Diabetes Conversation Map”
One memorable highlight was an excursion to the Chefferie de Bapa museum and TAGIDOR Resort, where the children experienced the region’s rich cultural heritage and enjoyed moments of fun and relaxation. Beyond recreation, the outing reminded them that having Type 1 Diabetes does not limit their dreams or define who they are.
For many participants, the greatest impact came from connecting with others who understood their daily experiences. Sharing personal stories, challenges, and victories fostered friendships, reduced feelings of isolation, and built a stronger support network among families.
Reflecting on his experience, the Type 1 Diabetes Champion Gangbabga Nubela shared: “The new things I’ve learned through this picnic are that your feeding manner enhances the way you live with diabetes, and being together helps overcome our challenges.”
His testimony echoed the experience of many participants who left the picnic with greater confidence, practical knowledge, and renewed hope for the future.
Children, Caregivers and RADA Team
Through its Diabetes Support Program, RADA intends to continue strengthening these support systems by raising awareness, building the capacity of families and healthcare providers, promoting peer support, and creating opportunities for children and young people living with Type 1 Diabetes to thrive.
Learn more about RADA’s Diabetes Support Program and how you can support children
Living with Type 1 Diabetes by Visiting Here to become a member.
Prepared by: Bidmia Christabel Bobnyonga.
