Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disease that can affect children and adults and is unrelated to diet and lifestyle. It stops a person?s pancreas from producing insulin -- the hormone that controls blood sugar levels. As a result, people with type 1 diabetes need to count carbohydrates, take insulin injections, and monitor their blood glucose levels throughout the day. It is a trying task with no breaks, very high stakes, and many side effects and struggles. Type 1 Diabetes is a chronic disease that currently has no cure. 

I am a Type 1 Diabetic. I was diagnosed when I was 16 years old. I am very grateful to all the doctors and medical advances that have made it possible for me to have had such a healthy and full life over my 24 year battle. But it has not been without challenges, scary days, close calls, and worry for my future health. 

My daughter, Maddie, was diagnosed this past year at the age of 2. Maddie?s journey has just begun. We will be walking to show Maddie that we are not alone in this fight, and that there are so many other brave individuals out there fighting with us. 

Please help us help Maddie and the millions of others affected by this disease, so that we may find a cure and someday have a future without diabetes. 

- Jackie