Cooper Holmes
cah009@marietta.edu
November 1 marked the start of Nationa Diabetes Awareness Month. Similar to the way October aids in showing both awareness and support for Breast Cancer Awareness, November is also a month which helps showcase a remarkable cause. During the month of November awareness is brought towards Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes.
The awareness comes in many forms throughout the entire month. For example, many individuals will share their stories of coping with Type 1 (T1) or Type 2 (T2) diabetes. In Type 1, the body does not or can not produce its own insulin; in Type 2, the body produces insulin, however, it simply does not use it effectively. No matter which type a person may have, both should be taken seriously, as both can have lasting effects on the body. Some organizations and business will create fundraisers to help aid in continued research of the disease, while global charities help supply individuals with the needed equipment and insulin to help combat the disease.
One organization that is well-known for its continued support is the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDFR). The JDFR is an organization which helps gain and supply funding for T1 Diabetes research to hopefully find a clear cure for this disease. While T1 diabetes is most commonly found in children, both T1 and T2 can be found in adults as well and, in most cases, could be diagnosed at any time.
The JDRF hold many different events for fundraising including, Walks, Runs, Galas, Golf Tournaments, and various other related events all centered around bringing awareness and support to the cause. On the JDRF site, individuals can create their own fundraisers to help gain support and donations for continued research as well.
If you would like to find out more about giving donations to the cause or about JDRF’s mission, log on to their website at https://www.jdrf.org/. Also if you would like to show your support to those around you, the color to wear for National Diabetes Awareness month is Blue!
