In honor of November being National Diabetes Month, we are shining a light on one condition of the disease, Type 1 diabetes (T1D). This chronic condition means the pancreas generates little to no insulin. Imagine having to give yourself multiple insulin shots and prick your finger to check your blood sugar throughout a day. These are just some of the challenges that a Type 1 diabetic faces daily.
JDRF Walk
According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), 1.25 million people are affected by Type 1 diabetes in the United States alone. While insulin helps manage the disease, unfortunately there is no cure. JDRF (formerly Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) is the leading global organization working to change that. Hosting annual events such as walks/runs, bike rides, golf tournaments, galas and more, JDRF has a mission to cure and prevent Type 1 diabetes.
On October 28, 2018, we participated in a 3 mile walk hosted by the organization with Team Pump, Pump, Pump It Up. Led by Briana, the team came together to support her fight of Type 1 diabetes since she was a child. 365 days a year Briana, as well as two of her family members, continually tests blood sugar to stay as healthy as can be. On this Sunday, it started and ended at the Philadelphia Museum of Art with more than 300 teams taking on the challenge. In total, $911,079 was raised on the walk, and the number continues to rise as support of these teams keep on coming!
Briana is not the only friend of ours that has been affected by Type 1 diabetes. In 2011, Anthony was diagnosed later in life while in college. This year, together with his wife Allie, he’ll be representing Team JDRF to Cure Diabetes at the national level. They are proudly running the 10k during the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend in January 2019. To learn more about Anthony’s story and to support his upcoming journey, become a sponsor or donate here.
Type 1 Diabetes Statistics
In the US, an estimated 40,000 people are diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes each year. By 2050, an estimated 5 million people will be living with the disease, including nearly 600,000 people under the age of 20. Early detection is key. To become more aware of Type 1 diabetes and to find out how YOU can contribute, visit JDRF’s website.
Does either type of diabetes affect you or a loved one? Tell us your story in the comments below.
