She has dedicated a significant portion of the prize money to advancing diabetes care, particularly focusing on monogenic diabetes, a rare condition caused by mutations in a single gene.
This funding enables free genetic testing for newborns with neonatal monogenic diabetes in various countries, helping to identify the condition that often goes undiagnosed. Monogenic diabetes, affecting about 1600 new cases globally each year, can often be managed with tablets instead of insulin, improving quality of life. Genetic testing is crucial in these cases, as it can lead to more accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.
Shepherd's work has had a global impact, offering genetic testing in 31 different countries, including cases from the UAE. The Middle East and North Africa, having the highest incidence of diabetes, benefit significantly from her efforts. She emphasizes the importance of tailored treatments based on accurate diagnoses, which can change a lifetime of unnecessary insulin treatment for some patients.
Her award has also raised awareness about the diverse roles nurses can play in research, clinical care, education, and leadership, and she encourages nurses worldwide to apply for the next Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award. The 2024 edition of the award will be held in Bengaluru, India, with nominations open until December 15.