From paediatric cancers to developmental disorders, parents and experts working in the field came together at the Mumbai Marathon to put the spotlight on children’s health. A group of nutritionists from Cuddles Foundation marched for love, care and support for children with cancer. “Good nutrition at every stage is essential to battle cancer,” said Uma Seshadri (47), a member of the foundation that helps government and charity hospitals with paediatric nutritionists and food aid.
Parents of Children with Down Syndrome, a parents group, participated in the marathon to promote inclusivity. The children came dressed like traffic police personnel, fisherman, and other professionals. “We wanted our children to be exposed to the marathon and the marathoners to our children for better awareness,” Amrita Shetty, a parent, said.
For the children at Mann Center, Sunday’s was the fourth marathon. “We work with children with intellectual disability and developmental delays. They have certain limitations, but they are at par with everybody of their age is what we want society to understand,” Manasi Mehta, a member of the center, said.