I am proud to announce that I have been selected as a member of Atlanta’s ONE Group by the JDRF Georgia Chapter. Honorees were selected based on their professional and philanthropic accomplishments, as well as their commitment to making a difference in the communities in which they live and work. I will be honored at The ONE Party on November 7, 2013 at The Estate.
As an honoree, I have made a personal pledge to raise at least $10,000 for type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. I would like to invite you to join me in support of this very worthy cause that is very dear to my heart.
As you know, I was diagnosed with diabetes about four years ago. After my diagnosis in January 2008, I quickly got up to speed on diabetes and what impact it would have on my life. I met with seven different endocrinologist in six different cities trying to determine why I got diabetes and how to manage my life going forward as a diabetic. Once I found Dr. Bruce Bode, he quickly got my sugars under control, and we set up a game plan that would allow me to continue living a great and healthy lifestyle.
When I read what having type 1 diabetes could do to a person’s body, my goal was to change my diet, continue to work out and live a healthy life. Months later, I got my sugars under control by taking the right amount medication, eating healthy and exercising. However, I knew this would only be a temporary fix.
This past year, my condition has gotten worse, and I now have to rely on taking insulin every day along with my medication. I still continue to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly and do feel better than ever. I am determined to beat diabetes and not let it beat me!
Since being diagnosed, I have created a great friendship with Dr. Bode and the JDRF President, Andy Cash. After attending two JDRF Galas and getting to know everyone involved, I became very determined and knew that I wanted to do more. I was nominated to the JDRF Board this past June and have set a personal goal to help find a cure.
Please help me fight this disease. I sincerely appreciate any contributions that you can make on my behalf to JDRF. Monies raised will make a tremendous impact in the fight against diabetes.