Our T1D journey began just less than 1 year ago when our youngest daughter, Makenna, was diagnosed on April 23rd, 2020 at the age of 8. Rushing her to the hospital and receiving this diagnosis was devastating enough, but to have it happen during a pandemic made it much more difficult, lonely, and terrifying — at first.

Thankfully, we were quickly introduced to JDRF through our bag of hope we received at the hospital. We can’t even begin to tell you how grateful we are for this amazing organization that has such a strong vision – a world without T1D.

Soon, One Walk quickly became a very impactful way that we could become active participants in this strong community! We couldn’t wait to get a team started in support of our daughter and all of those affected by T1D worldwide.

After we registered, we got our creative juices flowing and began rallying our community for “socially distanced” support. We sent flyers to our neighbors, asking them to stand in their yards and cheer Makenna on as our immediate family completed our One Walk in our neighborhood. We were inspired by their enthusiasm and generosity as many of our neighbors sent Makenna uplifting cards and donations for JDRF!

We also planned a drive-by parade, inviting family friends, Makenna’s classmates, soccer team, and dance friends to surprise her with their heartwarming support — she was so moved by all the posters, kind words, and donations to JDRF in her honor! She was thrilled to mail her personalized bracelets with her team name.

We hope that your family will join us this year for walk on Sunday, October 10. We encourage you to get excited, be creative, and participate as it is a special and moving event, whether you walk at home or at the zoo! The impact JDRF has made and the progress it continues to make each day is a special gift. We are inspired by JDRF’s continued efforts in research and advocacy and strongly believe that with our collective and continued support, we will continue to raise awareness and funds

and one day will turn Type One into Type None.

Best wishes from our T1D family to yours,

Mary and Mike Yenkowski