Walking for a Cure

Aanya covers the JDRF One Walk event in Memphis, Tennessee.

In October, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) sponsored a 5K walk in support of children who have been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Hundreds of people, including children, participated in One Walk, which was held at Shelby Farms Park in Memphis, Tennessee.

“This is typically our largest fundraiser of the year,” said Anita Harrison, event coordinator for JDFR’s West Tennessee Chapter. This was the organization’s 21st annual walk.

Visitors found a festive atmosphere at One Walk, with posters decorating the field and music playing from the speakers. Volunteers along the way offered words of encouragement and enthusiastic smiles.

Hundreds of people, including children, participated in this year’s JDRF One Walk at Shelby Farms Park in Memphis, Tennessee.

“AWARENESS IS CRUCIAL”

JDFR, a global organization, focuses on three main goals: finding a cure for Type 1 diabetes through research; rasing awareness about the disease in the community; and providing support for children who are diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.

“We’re the largest organization raising money for Type 1 diabetes,” said Katie Pickler, senior development manager of the West Tennessee Chapter of JDRF. “We treat and try to prevent the disease.”

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas stops producing insulin. The hormone is needed to transmit sugar to the body’s cells to produce energy.

The disease typically develops in children, teens, and young adults. It currently affects 1.25 million Americans.

“Awareness is crucial,” Pickler said. “Type 1 diabetes is a silent disease. If people understand it, they can prevent it, or they can understand what someone who has developed it is going through.”

Thanks to the participation and fundraising efforts of the walkers, nearly $448,000 was raised this year in support of JDFR’s efforts.