Building on the resounding success of previous editions, NephroPlus, Asia’s largest dialysis network and a pioneer in redefining dialysis care, hosts the 5th edition of the Indian Dialysis Olympiad (IDO) in Bengaluru. This much-awaited sporting event, exclusively for dialysis patients (called as guests by NephroPlus), was held at Kanteerava Stadium, creating an inspiring platform for participants to demonstrate their resilience and strength despite the challenges of kidney failure.
The event was attended by 1200 guests, including nearly 800 dialysis patients, along with Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, badminton champion Saina Nehwal, Dr Nazia Shekhaji, State Coordinator at National Health Mission, Karnataka and others. Their presence served as a source of immense encouragement for the participants, reinforcing the message that every individual, irrespective of health challenges, can aspire to achieve greatness.
The previous editions were held in Delhi, Hyderabad, Pune and Mumbai. The fourth edition saw participation of over 650 dialysis patients on March 5, 2023 with theme "Will to Win" in New Delhi. The 3rd edition of Indian Dialysis Olympiad 2019 was held on December 22, 2019 at the Balewadi boxing stadium in Pune with theme “Yes, you can”. The first edition was held in Hyderabad in 2015 with participation of over 600 participants. The second edition of IDO was held in 2017 on October 29, 2017 at the Thyagaraj Stadium in New Delhi.
The Indian Dialysis Olympiad is NephroPlus’ flagship patient-centric initiative, designed to encourage dialysis patients to engage in sports, connect with fellow patients, and rediscover the joy of physical activity. The event featured a series of exciting sports, including Badminton, Table Tennis, a Penalty Shootout (Football), a 50-meter Walkathon, Basketball (Best of Five), and Carrom to name a few. Each competition offered participants a chance to showcase their skills, embrace the competitive spirit, and celebrate their determination to live life beyond dialysis.
Speaking about the Olympiad, Vikram Vuppala, Founder and CEO of NephroPlus, said, “At NephroPlus, we believe that dialysis should not define a person’s life—it should simply be a part of it. The Indian Dialysis Olympiad is our way of proving that people on dialysis can lead active, fulfilling lives and participate in sports just like anyone else. Year after year, we are inspired by the resilience and enthusiasm of our participants, and this motivates us to continue creating opportunities that empower them. We are excited to bring this unique event to Bengaluru and look forward to witnessing incredible stories of strength and determination.”
Saina Nehwal, badminton icon, commented, "It is truly inspiring to see dialysis patients defy the odds and participate in sports with such enthusiasm. The Indian Dialysis Olympiad is a wonderful initiative that proves determination and passion can overcome any challenge."
The Indian Dialysis Olympiad stands as the world’s only sporting event exclusively designed for dialysis patients, underscoring NephroPlus’ unwavering mission to empower them with a will to win. Through this initiative, the brand continues to foster a sense of community, resilience, and optimism among those battling kidney disease.
