I have had type 1 diabetes (T1D) for 42 years and have a family history of T1D; my father, two uncles, and a cousin. I was 26 years old when I found out and the rest of my family members were all adults when diagnosed as well. I had a hard time in the early years using beef/pork insulin and not being able to control the highs/lows very well. I had many visits to the emergency room and several hospital stays because of complications.

Twenty-five years ago I discovered JDF, now JDRF and things started to change for me. I found a great Endocrinologist and learned a lot about how to live better with diabetes. With the help of the JDRF family of volunteers and my new doctor I started on an insulin pump and that helped. I was really excited to be a part of starting the JDRF Heartland Chapter, Omaha-Council Bluffs as well as the annual Walk and Gala to help raise money to find a cure.

Ten years ago my doctor started me on a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) and my life really changed. I have not been treated for any diabetes related condition in the last 10 years because of it. This great technological advance would not have happened if it wasn’t for JDRF research money.

I am a longtime volunteer of JDRF and will continue until we find a CURE. I use Facebook and my email list to contact friends and family to gain support in my fund raising efforts. I have been very lucky to have such great support.

Because of JDRF and the great family of staff and volunteers, we have helped push technological development to the best it has been in years and in the next 18 months we will see some of the most outstanding achievements ever.

— Terry Weland

Join Terry on Saturday, August 20th for the annual JDRF One Walk, walk.jdrf.org/omaha.