Summertime with the American Diabetes Association

My involvement with the American Diabetes Association is in full swing this summer! Last weekend, I volunteered at a rest stop for the Tour De Cure in Lippold Park, which was super fun! I saw so many smiling faces and so many people having fun just in the one place I was stationed. People were bicycling 10-100 miles to raise money for diabetes and I saw cyclists from 5 years old to seniors. Everyone at the rest stop was having a great time meeting new people, playing bean bags, getting snacks, and just relaxing. I was a volunteer this year, but after seeing how fun it was for the participants this year, I intend to make my own team next year!

Also, camp season is just starting! Parent Orientation for Camp Confidence was on Saturday, June 18th, and it was really nice to see everyone again! This year, I’m seeing my campers from last year, meeting the younger siblings of many of the campers I had last year, and meeting a lot of new campers! Personally, I felt at ease being around so many people with diabetes. It reminds me that people with diabetes can do anything and there’s nothing “different” about me, other than the way my pancreas works. Even the little 4 year olds in my group seemed to be immediately at ease; it seemed all of the worry (and sometimes fear) that comes with diabetes melted away on the campground. I am so fortunate to be a part of this experience for the campers (and for myself!). Every year, I learn more and more about diabetes, not just about the physical aspects of it but also emotions that come alongside it. It’s scary for everyone involved and camp helps every member of the family learn and feel more comfortable.

I am also excited for the 2016 Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes in Chicago coming up after Summer! I’ve registered my team and am getting started on fundraising with my friends and family. I’m delighted that so many of my friends are eager to join, as well, and that I can have a part in funding diabetes research!

I am also fortunate to be on the Camp Confidence Teen Panel Parent Session this year! Tomorrow, Tuesday, June 21st from 9:15-10:15am. All camper families are welcome to come listen and ask questions to several of the Camp Confidence teenage staff. It is very rewarding for parents to ask whatever questions they might have about their children’s futures and it’s a great experience for me to be a role model. Hope to see you tomorrow! :)