Living with type 1 diabetes (T1D), to say the least, is no cake walk. Let’s be honest, it’s downright tiring and absolutely challenging sometimes. Despite this truth, and in the face of nearly impossible obstacles, people with T1D still do amazing things. And their accomplishments inspire everyone connected to JDRF to no end!
For example, Yahoo sports recently posted a story on Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler. Jay, after being diagnosed with T1D over four years ago and in the midst of his NFL career, has taken it upon himself to raise money for T1D and also work directly with children living with the disease – all while still playing! Another recent news story focused on a woman in New Zealand, Winsome Johnston, who has lived with T1D for 78 years. Other people living with T1D who also have significant years of diabetes management under their belt know just how incredible an achievement this is. And speaking of milestones in a person’s life and others who are inspiring, 13-year-old Matthew Sherr recently raised more than $90,000 for JDRF by donating gifts from his bar mitzvah. Great job, Matthew, and congratulations on proving that it’s possible for a person with T1D to make a big difference at any age!
On a personal note, I’m quite proud of some of my recent accomplishments as a person living with T1D for over 19 years, including a hard-earned belt promotion in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and graduating from a 500 hour yoga teacher training course.
So, if you’re reading this, and you are someone living with T1D, or you care greatly for someone living with it, JDRF has a number of forums where you can share your story and what you’ve accomplished while living with this unique challenge.
Finally, continue to spread awareness, support T1D research, and keep trying to do good things while dealing with this difficult hand that’s been dealt. Your story, like Jay Cutler’s, Winsome Johnston’s and Matthew Sherr’s, helps inspire others and keeps this sometimes seemingly impossible course ahead navigable.