“Learning that I had diabetes and hypertension was extremely hard, especially as I was still in the process of accepting my HIV status. However, it was not all hopeless. Thanks to the health education and support I received from mothers2mothers (m2m) Mentor Mothers, I knew how to adjust and where to seek care and support,” Nozethu, m2m client in South Africa.  

In sub-Saharan Africa, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like hypertension, diabetes, and obesity are set to become the leading cause of mortality by 2030. They are a particular risk for people living with HIV—and therefore, the communities m2m serves. This World Diabetes Day, Nozethu’s story brings to the fore the overwhelming impact and confusion that can follow a diabetes diagnosis when one is already dealing with other significant health challenges.  

That is why the empathetic and integrated health care education, services, and support provided by community health workers like m2m Mentor Mother are critical in turning the tide. With this year’s World Diabetes Day theme focusing on “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps”, the work of Mentor Mothers is more relevant than ever. Through their work in facilities and by going door-to-door in communities, they are ensuring that everyone, everywhere, regardless of where they live or their socioeconomic status, receives the support and treatment they need. They ensure that everyone is screened, referred for early diagnosis, started on treatment and and retained in care. 

m2m’s Mentor Mother Model has evolved to include education, screening, and management of diabetes and hypertension, as well as referring and linking clients to clinical services—all with the aim of supporting women and their families to manage multiple health conditions with guidance and care from trained m2m Mentor Mothers. This holistic approach ensures that individuals not only have access to medication but also the tools to make lifestyle changes and adhere to treatment plans. 

Our clients’ lived experiences show the impact we can have 

Nozethu, a mother of three from South Africa, is one of many m2m clients who have benefited from our expanded services. Diagnosed with HIV in 2020, Nozethu found hope and guidance thanks to the health education, emotional support, and practical guidance provided by the Mentor Mothers at the health facility. And it was them that she turned to once again when she was diagnosed with both hypertension and diabetes.

Mentor Mothers supported Nozethu in creating manageable lifestyle changes, which include a healthy diet and a simple exercise routine such as walking. They also regularly checked in during her regular clinic visits, visits to her home, and phone calls to ensure she was adhering to her new lifestyle. Through their support, Nozethu was able to control her blood sugar levels and incorporate healthier habits into her family’s life.  

“Since eating healthy can be expensive, I plan to start a vegetable garden. I have a very small backyard space that is perfect for planting spinach. I’ve already seen a difference in my health, thanks to the support of my Mentor Mothers,” she says.  

For Nozethu, m2m has been more than just a source of healthcare—it has been a lifeline. “I am thankful to m2m for helping us with not only HIV, but also many other health conditions we face in the community. Without their support it would have been very difficult for me to manage three chronic conditions.  

The need for integrated health solutions 

As we mark World Diabetes Day, we are reminded of the importance of addressing health challenges holistically. Diabetes and other NCDs like hypertension cannot be managed in isolation, especially in communities where HIV is prevalent.  

At m2m, we are committed to delivering integrated health services that address the full spectrum of our clients’ needs. Community-based solutions like our Mentor Mother Model and dedicated community health workers ensure that health education and support are embedded within the community. With continued dedication to integrated, community-led care, we can move closer to ensuring that everyone has access to the life-saving treatment and support they deserve. 

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