On September 26, 2011, my family received the shocking diagnosis that our nine-year-old daughter, Bailey, had type 1 diabetes (T1D). In the months leading up to her diagnosis I knew something was wrong. She was losing weight, was thirsty all the time, and was consistently using the bathroom. My concern and worry led me to take her to our doctor. I’ll never forget that day. After running some blood tests he delivered the news that Bailey had T1D and immediately sent us to Children’s Hospital.
I was shocked. I had no previous knowledge of T1D and didn’t know at the time how big a role it would play in her daily life. In the hospital the nurses taught us how to prick her finger and give her insulin injections. Four years later, Bailey is a healthy 13-year-old who doesn’t let diabetes slow her down. She controls her blood-sugar and takes multiple insulin injections every day.
After Bailey’s diagnosis my family and I became involved with JDRF. They are the leading global organization funding T1D research with a mission to accelerate life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat T1D and its complications. In my experience, JDRF is like a family. The staff and volunteers are dedicated, passionate, and committed to the mission. I became involved to create awareness and raise money to one day find a cure for my daughter. I serve as a board member for the JDRF Denver chapter, and co-chaired the Dream Gala this year with my husband, Scott, and will again next year with my friend, Karina. I know the money we raise is helping JDRF get closer to finding a cure for T1D and improving the lives of those living with the disease. It’s amazing to see the advancements in T1D care that have occurred in such a short time and they wouldn’t be possible without the contributions and support of companies like ALEX AND ANI.
When I heard about the new ALEX AND ANI Side by Side Set of 2 benefitting JDRF, I was thrilled. I received my first ALEX AND ANI bangle from my daughters for Mother’s Day. They gave me a locket-heart charm while I gave them key charms; they have the key to my heart. The new Side by Side Bangles represent the unity and support offered within the JDRF community and the strength it brings. I’m excited to add this charm to my ALEX AND ANI collection! The otters symbolize friendship and unity, parallel my family’s team approach to Bailey’s diabetes. It wasn’t just her diagnosis; it was mine, Scott’s and Kelsey’s.
T1D tests my daughter every single day, but the support from each other and JDRF gives us hope for the future and a world without T1D.
The adorable Side by Side Set of 2 Charm Bangles benefiting JDRF.