Establishing an Insulin Pump Program at Mvumi Hospital
Life with type 1 diabetes is a daily challenge, demanding constant decision-making to keep blood sugars stable and in the normal range. This challenge, however, is amplified in remote regions like Mvumi, a village in Tanzania, where battling type 1 diabetes isn't just one about health; it's also a struggle against economic constraints and resource scarcity.
That's why Pump Avenue launched the Mvumi Project, an initiative to enhance the accessibility and quality of diabetes care in this region. We're committed to establishing an insulin pump program at Mvumi Hospital, representing a significant leap forward in offering more comprehensive and effective diabetes management for those in need.
Our collaboration with the dedicated doctors at Mvumi Hospital has already identified a brave young woman, a 23-year-old living with highly uncontrolled diabetes, as the first patient of this program. She has weathered numerous hospitalizations due to life-threatening diabetic ketoacidosis and stands as a testament to the urgent need for improved diabetes care.
Goals for this project:
Staff Training: To lay a solid foundation for our project, we'll start by conducting training sessions for the hospital's ward and outpatient department team of 20 people on insulin pump usage and maintenance.
Nutritional Counselling and Education: Next, we plan to organize sessions with a dietician to help the patient understand carb counting and meal planning. This step is crucial in preparing the patient for the self-management of diabetes using an insulin pump.
Equipping Patients: Once the patient is prepared for the transition, we aim to provide her with essential diabetes care materials, such as a glucometer, testing strips, and an insulin pump, along with pump supplies.
Sustained Relationship: Beyond the initial provision of care, we are committed to establishing a long-term relationship with the patient for continuous support and follow-up.
Early Intervention and Broadened Assistance: Lastly, we plan to identify other patients facing similar struggles. This can include patients with gestational diabetes, helping to control their diabetes for their health and the health of their child. Then, we look to donate additional insulin pumps to the hospital to support more patients.
Join Us In Making A Difference
Our goal in Mvumi is not one we can undertake alone. We need your partnership and support. Every dollar donated to the Mvumi Project gets us one step closer to our goals.
Your contribution could:
Support Sustainability: Managing diabetes is a long-term commitment, and so is our support for these patients. Your donation could help us provide ongoing insulin pump supplies, ensuring continuity of care and better health outcomes.
Elevate the Skills of a Local Nurse: Your donation could fund the training of a local healthcare worker. Imagine the difference it would make when a nurse is fully equipped with the knowledge to operate and maintain insulin pumps.
Educate a Patient: Your contribution can fund critical nutrition education sessions, giving them the knowledge they need to better manage their health long-term.
Bridge the Distance: The challenge of getting vital medical supplies to remote locations like Mvumi is one of the key barriers we face. Your donation could help cover international shipping costs, ensuring that distance and logistics don't stand in the way of delivering life-changing equipment to those who need it.
We invite you to partner with us. Donate to the Mvumi Project and join us in building a healthier future for the people with diabetes in Mvumi.