I’m taking part in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) Ride to Cure Diabetes on October 5, 2019 in Amelia Island, FL because I’m up for a physical and mental challenge that I know will be the experience of a lifetime. The money we raise will work towards a cure to change the lives of millions of people who struggle with the burden of type 1 diabetes (T1D) every day, like our baby girl Gia.

Gia was diagnosed with T1D back in 2013 just before her 6^th birthday and while life as we knew it changed completely, Gia has dealt with it with perseverance, courage, and strength.

T1D is a 24-hour, 7 day a week condition that requires constant monitoring, sleepless nights, and is something that is in the forefront of our minds at all times. Anything can affect blood sugars; food, hormones, anxiety, lack of sleep, stress, etc. We can’t take a break, it’s there constantly as a reminder of how precious life is and how quickly things can change. However, we refuse to let T1D limit Gia or our family in any way.

She wears an insulin pump and carries a small backpack with her at all times containing a continuous glucose monitor, something to treat lows (usually about 3-4 juices + glucose tabs, skittles), i.d. bracelet, extra supplies, and a prayer that the Lord watches over her. We are so proud at the way she has handled her new “normal” and we feel as parents it is our responsibility to help raise money to help find a cure for this chronic condition. We truly believe, with all the advancements that JDRF researchers have made in the past few years, our children that live with T1D, will one day be able to live a more carefree life without the burden of needles, devices, and insulin. We would appreciate your support no matter what the amount, WE CAN DO THIS!

Did you know T1D:

• Is an autoimmune disease in which a person’s pancreas stops producing insulin – the hormone that controls blood sugar levels

• Strikes children and adults suddenly and is unrelated to diet and lifestyle

• Requires constant carb counting, blood-glucose testing, and lifelong dependence on insulin

• Is a constant balancing act that results in stress and sleepless nights

There is no way to prevent T1D and there is no cure – yet. But JDRF is working hard to change that.

Every dollar you donate today funds research for breakthroughs to help everyone with T1D live healthier and longer, until this disease no longer exists.

With your support, we will turn Type One into Type None.

To donate, please visit: https://www2.jdrf.org/site/TR?fr_id=7733&pg=personal&px=12677133

Thank you.

Vaughn, Kristine, & Gia