In observance of Rare Diseases Day, Young Indians (YI) Vizag's Accessibility, in collaboration with Poornamidam and IIH Warriors India, hosted an enlightening awareness and experience session titled "Feel the Rare." Held on Sunday, February 25th, at the Tanishq Conference Room in Vizag, the event aimed to foster unity in society and advocate for accessible healthcare and community support for individuals living with rare diseases and chronic disabling conditions.

Dr. Varalakshmi Diwakarla, MD DM in Critical Care from Pinnacle Hospitals, graced the occasion as the guest of honor, shedding light on the prevalence of rare diseases. With over 10,000 rare diseases globally, including 5,000 in India, Dr. Diwakarla emphasized that 80% of these conditions are genetic, with 70% affecting children.

Architect Kavya Poornima Balajepalli, Founder of Poornamidam and IIH Warriors India, orchestrated an engaging exercise featuring various activities to simulate the common symptoms of rare diseases. Attendees were immersed in an experiential journey, experiencing sensations like chronic pain, fatigue, breathlessness, blindness, numbness, and more. 

The event was facilitated by Yi Vizag Accessibility chairs Dr. Tripti Yarramilli and Anoushk KV, drawing enthusiastic participation from YI Vizag members and Vizag Volunteers.

A significant highlight of the session was the launch of a dedicated WhatsApp community for Rare Diseases in Vizag. This platform aims to serve as a vital resource hub, fostering information exchange, peer support, crowdfunding for medical expenses, and collaboration among local stakeholders.

The "Feel the Rare" awareness session exemplified the unwavering commitment of Young Indians (YI) Vizag's Accessibility, Poornamidam, and IIH Warriors India in raising awareness, providing support, and advocating for individuals affected by rare diseases in Visakhapatnam and beyond.

For further details, please contact:
Ar. Kavya Poornima Balajepalli, Architect | District Level Committee Member on Disability, Visakhapatnam | NCPEDP Javed Abidi Fellow on Disability | Founder and Curator, Poornamidam [linktr.ee/poornamidam] & IIH Warriors India [linktr.ee/iihwarriorsindia]

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