Zulma Alicea’s daughter, Gabby, was diagnosed last year with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Having no family history and very limited knowledge about T1D, Zulma spent countless hours online trying to learn as much as possible about this disease. During her search, Zulma found JDRF and right away requested a Bag of Hope for her daughter.

Gabby was thrilled when she received her kit. Her mother says it really changed her outlook. Despite the challenges of COVID-19, Gabby and her mother found much-needed support during this difficult journey. Zulma says, “JDRF was Gabby’s introduction to other kids with T1D. She didn’t feel alone in this journey. Gabby was also very excited to learn that the insulin pump she uses was developed thanks to the research funded in part by the JDRF. The peace of mind this technology brings to our everyday life is immeasurable…it saves lives! This is the kind of impact we want to be a part of!”

And part of it, they are! After attending several virtual meet-ups and workshops, they registered for their first JDRF One Walk last fall. Together, the mother-daughter duo started Gabby’s Guardians in the hopes of including friend and family in their giving-back journey. Zulma says, “We give back because we are grateful for everything we’ve received, and because we want to make a difference in other people’s lives. Ultimately, we give back because we want to help the JDRF fund research that will one day find a cure for T1D.”

In addition to walking regularly as a family, Gabby is planning an in-person Walk with friends and family followed by a brunch. Zulma’s employer, Torcon, is also hosting an in-person Walk followed by a picnic for employees and their families. In addition to helping the team achieve their mileage goal, Torcon has been partially matching employee donations.

Zulma is grateful for her employer’s support. The company says, “Torcon is committed to making a difference through the work we do for our customers and in the lives of our employees. Among the company’s core values are Family and Community, which includes participating in events such as the JDRF One Walk. Zulma and her daughter Gabby are members of the Torcon family who we care about and are proud to support. We’ll be walking with Gabby’s Guardians on Sunday, to raise awareness and to raise funds for research to combat this disease.”

To join or donate to Gabby’s Guardians, please CLICK HERE.