Shannon McGinley Shannon McGinley

Adhera Health Research Spotlighted at ENDO 2025: Advancing AI-Driven Family-Centered Pediatric Care

Adhera Health’s latest research, featured at ENDO 2025, explores how AI-driven digital companions can support families managing pediatric chronic conditions like T1D, GHD, and obesity - putting science and empathy at the heart of care.

We’re thrilled to share that three of Adhera Health’s research studies have been accepted for presentation at ENDO 2025, the annual meeting of the Endocrine Society and one of the world’s leading forums for endocrine innovation. Taking place this July in San Francisco, the event will spotlight how our work is reshaping pediatric chronic care through clinically grounded, AI-powered solutions that support not just the child - but the entire family.

Groundbreaking Research, Family-First Impact

At Adhera Health, our mission is rooted in one fundamental belief: pediatric care must be family-centered to be truly effective. The studies selected for ENDO 2025 dive into the emotional, behavioral, and systemic realities of families navigating three complex conditions:

  • Growth Hormone Deficiency: A study revealing the deep interdependence between child and caregiver well-being.

  • Type 1 Diabetes (T1D): Research examining how AI can help identify patterns in hypo- and hyperglycemic events to better support families.

  • Childhood Obesity in Underserved Populations: A participatory initiative engaging Latino families to uncover cultural and systemic barriers, shaping more inclusive digital support tools.

“These insights are more than scientific findings - they’re the foundation of how we build technology that actually works for families,” said Ricardo C. Berrios, Co-Founder & CEO of Adhera Health. “We’re honored to share this work with the broader endocrine community at ENDO 2025.”

Powering the Future with Adhera AI Health Agents

These studies directly inform the development of the Adhera® AI Health Platform and our proprietary Adhera Health Agents - goal-oriented, autonomous AI companions built on Small Language Models (SLMs) and fueled by biopsychosocial family data. These agents are designed to support the entire care journey, offering timely, empathetic, and personalized guidance to families navigating chronic conditions.

“Our collaboration with Adhera Health shows how digital innovation must be both scientifically sound and human-centered,” said Dr. Antonio de Arriba Muñoz, Pediatric Endocrinologist at Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet.

Scaling Empathy and Science

As we scale nationally, these findings reinforce our belief that the next generation of healthcare tools must go beyond automation. They must understand, support, and connect—in ways that are equitable, emotionally intelligent, and clinically aligned.

“This is AI that doesn’t just think—it understands,” Berrios added. “It’s not just advanced, it’s deeply empathetic.”

To learn more about our work at Adhera Health and how we’re transforming pediatric chronic care, get in touch with us.

This blog article is based on the press release - https://www.einpresswire.com/article/819470694/adhera-health-strengthens-ai-driven-pediatric-platform-with-research-featured-at-endo-2025

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Shannon McGinley Shannon McGinley

Meet Connie Dovel: A Health & Wellness Coach Who Gets It

“It’s not just about what to eat or how to dose. It’s about listening - really listening - and working together to find what fits.”

Connie Dovel, Health and Wellness Coach for the Adhera Caring Digital Program, knows firsthand what families go through when a child is diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. As a parent of a T1D child herself, she brings deep empathy, real-life experience, and evidence-based support to every coaching interaction. In this blog, Connie shares how she helps families feel more confident, supported, and seen - one day at a time.

At Adhera Health, we believe that caring for a child with Type 1 diabetes takes more than clinical appointments - it takes everyday courage, emotional support, and a sense of being truly understood. That’s exactly what families find in Connie Dovel, one of the compassionate Health and Wellness Coaches behind the Adhera Caring Digital Program.

Connie’s role goes far beyond advice - it’s about connection, empathy, and empowerment. Here’s a closer look at what fuels her work and how she supports families navigating pediatric Type 1 diabetes.

A Lifelong Passion for Health - and a Personal Connection to T1D

Connie’s career in health and wellness spans personal training, nutrition counseling, and health promotion. With a Bachelor’s in Exercise Science, a Master’s in Health Promotion Management, and certifications in both personal training and health coaching, she brings deep knowledge to every coaching session.

But what makes her truly unique is that she’s walked this road herself:

“My oldest child was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at 11. I can empathize with and guide families because I’ve faced the same challenges they’re facing every single day.”

Coaching That’s Personal, Not One-Size-Fits-All

Through the Adhera app, Connie supports families with:

  • One-on-one chat support

  • Scheduled video sessions

Each conversation is tailored to a family’s unique concerns. Whether it’s navigating sports safely, managing picky eating, or adjusting insulin around busy schedules, Connie adapts to meet them where they are.

“Every interaction is different. There’s no script. Just a real conversation based on what that family needs right now.”

A Moment That Meant Everything

Connie recalls supporting a teen girl with T1D who was completely burned out and disengaged from her care.

“She had given up. Her parents were overwhelmed. We took small steps, little by little. Months later, she messaged me:
‘Thank you for believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself.’
That’s why I do this.”

Tools That Help Families Feel in Control

Connie often begins with goal setting - short-term, long-term, and everything in between. From mindfulness exercises to daily check-ins, each strategy is customized. And thanks to the app’s chat function, support fits into real life, not just a calendar.

“Families are busy. The digital connection means we don’t need to wait for a scheduled session. We can talk when it matters most.”

Inclusive, Accessible Support for Every Family

Connie works with families from all backgrounds. Her approach is grounded in respect, curiosity, and flexibility, with sensitivity to cultural, social, and emotional differences.

“It’s not just about what to eat or how to dose. It’s about listening - really listening - and working together to find what fits.”

Looking Ahead with Adhera Health

As someone who once wished for this kind of support herself, Connie is energized by where Adhera is headed:

“This concept is revolutionary. I wish something like this existed when my child was diagnosed. I’m honored to be part of it.”

Her advice to every caregiver?

“Take it one day at a time. Don’t be afraid to accept help. And remember—every small win matters.”

Learn More About the Adhera Caring Digital Program

Discover how Adhera Health supports families managing pediatric chronic conditions with empathy, evidence, and everyday tools that work.

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Shannon McGinley Shannon McGinley

Empowering Families: Navigating the Journey of Type 1 Diabetes Awareness and Support

Empowering Families: Navigating the Journey of Type 1 Diabetes Awareness and Support

November is a significant month for many reasons. As we observe Diabetes Awareness Month, we also celebrate National Family Caregivers Month—a time to reflect on the challenges and triumphs of those who care for loved ones with chronic conditions. Having hosted several workshops with parents of children living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) as part of an SBIR study supported by the National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities, I’ve had the privilege to hear firsthand about their journeys, the trials they face, and the resilience they embody. We conducted hundreds of interviews with parents across different ethnicities, and their diverse experiences provided valuable insights into the unique challenges and strengths present in each community. Their stories are poignant reminders of the love and commitment that define family caregiving.

Understanding the Challenges of Type 1 Diabetes in Children

Through my interactions with these families, I've come to appreciate the delicate balance they strive to achieve between encouraging independence in their children and ensuring their safety. It’s a tightrope walk; parents want their kids to take charge of their health—monitoring blood glucose levels and understanding their dietary choices—while constantly worrying about their well-being. This tension is not just a logistical challenge; it significantly impacts a child's self-esteem and personal growth.

One theme that emerged consistently during our workshops was the need for community. Many parents expressed feelings of isolation, yearning for connections with others who truly understand their experiences. The support they find—whether through online forums or local meet-ups—becomes a lifeline, offering solace, shared strategies, and the comfort of knowing they are not alone in their struggles. That’s why it’s important to have organizations like Breakthrough T1D, which is dedicated to supporting families affected by type 1 diabetes. Breakthrough T1D provides educational resources, peer support, and community events that empower families to navigate the complexities of diabetes management together.

The quest for accurate information can also feel daunting. Parents often find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer volume of resources available, trying to determine what is relevant and reliable for their unique situations. The constant worry of "What if?" looms large, as they grapple with the fear of making mistakes that could have dire consequences for their child’s health. This immense responsibility can feel like a heavy burden, one that weighs on their minds day and night.

Building a Supportive Network

As I listened to parents share their stories, it became clear that support from family, friends, and school personnel is essential in navigating the complexities of T1D. Yet, many families struggle to cultivate a network that fully grasps the intricacies of diabetes care. The right support system can significantly enhance a child’s experience, ensuring they feel understood and valued both at home and in educational settings.

The emotional impact of caring for a child with T1D is profound. Many caregivers shared their need for mental health resources to help manage the ongoing stress and anxiety associated with the condition. Emotional support isn’t just a luxury; it’s a crucial component that helps families maintain resilience through the ups and downs of diabetes management.

A particularly challenging area that parents mentioned was interpreting data from continuous glucose monitors (CGMs). While these devices can provide peace of mind, the stress of understanding their readings can be overwhelming without proper training. By equipping families with the knowledge they need to confidently respond to this information, we can help them manage their child's health more effectively.

Planning for the Future

As children with T1D grow, their healthcare needs inevitably change. The transition from pediatric to adult care presents a host of uncertainties for parents—questions about finding suitable adult endocrinologists, securing health insurance, and ensuring continuity of care can feel daunting. Preparing for these changes while managing an already demanding condition adds another layer of complexity to their journey.

T1D can also shift family dynamics, with food, glucose monitoring, and insulin injections often becoming the focal point of daily life. Parents strive to ensure that diabetes doesn’t overshadow every family meal or outing, but it’s a delicate balance that requires constant adjustment.

Reflecting on What We’ve Learned

Hearing the heartfelt experiences of these parents has underscored the emotional toll that T1D takes on families. The unending vigilance required creates a backdrop of stress and fear that can permeate daily life. As we work to provide accessible and relevant information, it’s essential that families feel empowered to manage their child’s health with confidence.

Community support plays a vital role in this journey. Many families have found strength in both online and offline networks, where they can connect, share, and uplift one another. Building strong relationships with healthcare providers, particularly pediatric endocrinologists, also proves crucial for the guidance and advocacy families need.

Financial concerns are another significant burden for parents. From the high costs of medications and supplies to the anxiety around long-term insurance coverage, these challenges can feel overwhelming. Advocacy and awareness are essential to support T1D families and alleviate some of this financial strain.

Social stigma surrounding T1D is yet another hurdle. Families voiced the need for greater public education to foster a supportive, stigma-free environment for their children. By raising awareness, we can help combat misunderstandings and create a more inclusive society.

Finally, I’ve seen how parents cope with these pressures—inventive strategies like humor, support groups, or simply finding solace in shared experiences. These coping mechanisms empower families to find hope and strength, even in the face of adversity.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

As we mark Diabetes Awareness Month, let’s take a moment to honor the incredible strength of families managing T1D. As a fellow mom, I understand the challenges you face and the emotional toll it can take. To all the parents, caregivers, and loved ones out there: you are not alone. Your challenges are seen, your victories celebrated, and we stand with you every step of the way. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by type 1 diabetes.

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