A Walk to Cure Diabetes

Some of you might know that my friend, Megann Heath’s, daughter has diabetes. She was diagnosed last year, a month after her 1st birthday. While we were at the art festival on friday there was a booth kids could color a picture of a shoe and parents were able to learn more about the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. They are holding a Walk to Cure Diabetes fundraiser here in Idaho Falls. Lainey can explain it better than me so here is a letter from her:

Hi! My name is Elaina (Lainey) Heath and I have type 1 diabetes. I was diagnosed in February 2007 when I was only 13 months old. Just 3 months later, I got my first insulin pump. I have to wear it all day, every day, and I will be insulin-dependent for the rest of my life. My fingers are pricked 6-8 times a day to check my blood sugar and even at night while I sleep. That’s over 2,500 pricks a year! Everything I eat must be measured to know how many carbohydrates I consume (there are 10 carbs. in 27 gold fish crackers). But amidst my strict daily routine, I’m still a very happy, vibrant, and playful two year old.

Researchers feel that a cure IS in sight for juvenile diabetes, and wiping it out of existence is within reach. By curing diabetes I won’t have to worry about complications that come from this disease, like heart and kidney disease, blindness, amputation, and early death.

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) is the #1 non-profit funder of diabetes research worldwide. Last year they raised over $94 million to fund diabetes research. One of JDRF’s largest fundraising events is the “Walk to Cure Diabetes” and this year, for the first time, they are hosting the event in Idaho Falls. My mamma, daddy, and sister have formed a team named “Heath Family” and want to raise money towards this cause. The walk will be held on Saturday, September 13 at the Snake River Landing Pier.

If you are interested in making a donation for the “Walk to Cure Diabetes” there are a couple ways you can make a difference for me and other children with diabetes:

• Go online to http://walk.jdrf.org/ In the box that says “Donate to a Walker” type in my mamma’s name, Megann Heath, and press on the button that says “Find Walker”. On the new page, click on her name. A new page will appear. On this page click on the box that says “Donate to this Walker” on the top left hand side. Fill out your information and credit card number.

Thank you for helping my family meet our team goal of raising $500 this year. Thank you for your support and we would love to see you cheering us on at the Walk on September 13^th!

Sincerely,

Lainey