The South Asian community has once again stepped forward to address an issue that hits close to home. While diabetes disproportionately affects the South Asian population, it is alarming that an increasing number of children are being diagnosed with the disease. The BC Children Hospital has been a leader in conducting clinical research to help find new ways to diagnose and treat children with diabetes. To contribute to this research, members of the South Asian community have pledged to raise $1 million to support groundbreaking research into childhood diabetes.
Peter Raju, owner of the duty-free shop at Peace Arch border and chair of the South Asian Development Committee, at BC Children Hospital (BCCH) Foundation, has come up with a unique and impactful fundraising strategy. Instead of hosting a traditional gala, Raju has called on 50 prominent South Asian business and community leaders to contribute $20,000 each to raise $1 million in total by March 31, 2025. He says every dollar raised will go directly to research, bypassing administrative and event-related expenses.
“This remarkable initiative will allow caregivers and families to envision a future without diabetes,” said Raju. “It will enhance the lives of children and families battling this disease.”
Reflecting on the origins of this initiative, Raju shared, “About three years ago, following the COVID-19 pandemic, BC Children’s Hospital approached us to help raise funds for research into childhood diabetes. It’s a cause close to our hearts. I organized a small event at my home, inviting a few community members. In just half an hour, we raised $540,000 through their generous support.”
Building on that success, the Raju aims to raise $1 million this time. Raju added, “At the end of the campaign, we will hold a reception to recognize and thank the contributors.”
The fundraising efforts are part of a larger research project led by BC Children’s Hospital. According to Rita Thodos, Executive Vice-President, BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, “More than 2,400 children across BC live with diabetes: a constant, unrelenting challenge that requires daily vigilance from patients and families. But at BC Children’s Hospital, we are on the brink of groundbreaking advancements thanks to world-class clinical research. Our experts are uncovering new ways to predict, prevent, and even reverse this life-altering disease. We’re moving faster than ever towards a cure, and this simply wouldn’t be possible without the commitment of donors.”
The funds raised will support BC Children’s world-renowned researchers in lab-Based Research — Developing innovative methods to predict, prevent, and reverse childhood diabetes and clinical research: Discovering new ways to diagnose and treat children affected by this devastating disease.
Kamal Sharma, director of the South Asian Development Committee and president of KVP Entertainers, said, “Diabetes is a common lifestyle disease among South Asians. We all understand its impact, not just on patients but on their families as well. There’s a lack of awareness, and education is critical.”
Sharma explained how the idea of involving 50 contributors took shape. “In our initial event, a small group raised $540,000. This time, we wanted to expand the circle, ensuring that more people contribute equally. The idea has been well-received by the community. It wasn’t difficult to approach South Asian business leaders, and we hope this will inspire even greater participation.”
Anyone interested can contact Kamal Sharma for more information. Together, the community aims to make a lasting impact, paving the way for a future where no child’s life is shortened by diabetes.
