The Kenny’s took Christine’s diagnosis of type 1 diabetes as a 2-year-old and immediately plugged into the JDRF One Walk as a way to support Christine and the cause. After nearly two decades, Christine’s Crusaders decided to shift “gears” as Christine decided to take on challenge of riding for JDRF. Her dad Charles, who had always walked by her side along with community of supporters joined Christine and these two completed their first JDRF Ride to Cure in Burlington, VT during the summer of 2023. This family is all in, with Christine’s mom Stephanie volunteering in 2023 (set to volunteer again in 2024) and her sister Rachel set to join Christine and Charles on the bike in La Crosse, WI. “If you have type 1, if your child has it, if your sibling has it, if your student has you, you name it; we ride for you,” said Christine. “We ride for us and for all T1Ds fighting this fight.” JDRF is honored to continue the fight against T1D along with the Kenny’s and is grateful their continued dedication.

Sophia Cook was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in 2020 at just 15-years-old. With little knowledge and understanding of the disease the Cook family turned to JDRF. The Cook’s became heavily involved with the New Jersey Metro Chapter through One Walk, Youth Ambassador program, and volunteering. This past year was a bit different as Sophia and her mother Kristin decided to take on a new challenge by joining Team JDRF at the runDisney Wine & Dine Half Marathon. They rallied together with friends and family and headed down to Florida to show their dedication to JDRF and all those living with T1D. “I loved participating in the 2023 Disney Marathon, but love the community that One Walk provides,” said Sophia. “We plan to switch off each year to continue showing our support to One Walk and Team JDRF runDisney.” The Cook’s are excited to continue their fight alongside JDRF and can’t wait to have family and friends “run” Disney with them at their next marathon!