My name is Parker Corbett.  I am 17 years old and I was diagnosed on Christmas Day when I had just turned 16 .  My family was aware of the signs of Type 1 Diabetes, because my younger brother, Gavin,  had been diagnosed about 1 and 8 months before me.  We were all shocked, and it definitely was a strange Christmas.  My brother was really helpful that day, and showed me how to do the shots.  He was a great example that you don’t have to let it negatively affect your life.  As people asked me what I got for Christmas, I said “Type 1 Diabetes.”  My brother and I had also dubbed ourselves the “Dynamic Diabetic Duo.” I always try to have a sense of humor in life!  Not that I would wish T1D on anyone, but I am glad I have my brother to walk through it with.

I will say that I immediately wanted the Omnipod Pump and THE Dexcom G6.  They both make things so much easier, and are so helpful in seeing what your blood sugars are doing.  In addition to the devices, I have seen how important eating healthy and exercise are.  I have always been an active person.  I played soccer, flag football, and basketball growing up.  As I have gotten older, I rode dirt bikes, trick scootered, wake-boarded, snowboarded, enjoyed fishing, surfing, and more.  I recently got scuba certified.  My family enjoys adventurous travels, which I love.  Since being diagnosed I have been really focused on working out, along with special diets to bulk and trim up.  I enjoy doing this, and this will definitely be a part of my life going forward. I have not let T1D slow me down.

The biggest difference between my brother and I with T1D, is that I am older.  I am a senior in high school this year.  I talk a lot about the future and budgeting with my parents.  I know that all of the T1D devices, supplies, and insulin are very expensive.  That is why I am so grateful for an event like this to raise funds for them to research and try to find the cure.  The financial responsibility will be on me one day soon!  I am very thankful for JDRF!

Donate to help us recognize Parker and our other type one honorees at this year’s Re-Imagine Gala! https://jdrf-northernflorida.ejoinme.org/honorees