Welcome to the fourth installment of the 2017 JDRF One Walk Team Spotlights – a series dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the most important aspect of the JDRF One Walk – YOU! This week, read on to learn more about Aubrey is Type-One-Derful from Merrillville.

Team Name – Aubrey is Type-One-Derful
How long have you had your team? – This is our second year walking and we are looking forward to making it a yearly event with our friends and family
Walk Site – Hidden Lake Park in Merrillville, IN

Who are you walking for?
My daughter Aubrey – she is 4 years old and was diagnosed with T1D when she was 2 years old. To say our lives changed doesn’t describe what we and all of the families with T1D have through. However, she is one of the strongest and bravest four year olds I know. She doesn’t let T1D bring her down and inspires our family every day. She is sweet, shy, funny, and an excellent dancer. She is Aubrey, not, “Aubrey the girl with diabetes.” We love the walk because it shows her how much love surrounds her and is a special day all about her and others with T1D.

How did you pick your team’s name?
We tried to find something unique that would fit Aubrey and stand out. We collected ideas from the internet and voted on our favorite one.

What is the meaning behind your team tshirt?
We are planning to wear purple as it’s Aubrey’s favorite color and her request.

Do you have any Walk Day traditions?
Last year we all went to the walk and then most of the team came back to our house to continue to spend time together and celebrate. I plan to do that again this year since there is nothing we enjoy more than being with friends and family.

What is your favorite memory from your first walk?
Honestly, it was the overall awe we were in of the love and support we received from each and every person who donated and walked with us. It was overwhelming. Sometimes you can feel alone in the journey, but it was amazing to know just how many people have Aubrey’s back, are there to help her fight T1D, and walk for a cure!

Be sure to check back in soon for our next Team Spotlight. Have you registered your One Walk team yet? Visit walk.jdrf.org to register today. The 2017 JDRF One Walk in Merrillville is just over a week away on Sept. 17th and at our many Illinois sites are on Oct. 1st.