Ava Joseph’s  T1D Journey

At the age of 12, life took an unexpected turn for Ava, as she was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Fast forward to the present, at 19, Ava has not only embraced her own journey with T1D but has also become a beacon of support and inspiration for others facing the same challenges.

Last year, Ava and her family participated in the JDRF Walk to raise awareness and funds for T1D research. What began as a family endeavor quickly transformed into a team effort with the birth of Team “Veronia.”

Inspired by her personal growth since diagnosis, Ava wanted to extend a helping hand to others navigating the complexities of life with T1D. “I am ready to help others in any way that I can so they can become more confident in living with T1D,” Ava shared. With her mom’s encouragement, Ava decided to not only participate in the walk but also take the initiative to create a team, involving more family and friends in the process.

Currently attending college in Boston, Ava’s commitment to the T1D community goes beyond Columbus. Driven by a desire to deepen her involvement and connections within the T1D community, she has volunteered at two JDRF walks in Boston and Rhode Island.

Why Walk Day is Special

For Ava, Walk Day is more than just an event; it’s a day she truly feels part of the T1D community. “I have met many people with T1D over the years, but no one that is close to me, so I don’t often feel that connection in my regular life,” she shared. Getting the chance to witness all walks of life gathered in one place, all coming together to achieve the same goal while understanding each other’s struggles is the best feeling for Ava.

Reflecting on her Walk journey, Ava imparts some tips for first-time walkers. “Get as many people as you can on your walk team because the more, the merrier,” she advises. Ava emphasizes the importance of creating a sense of community for those who may not be knowledgeable about T1D.

A fun part of Walk and a highlight of Walk Day for Ava are the Team tees, as she finds joy in the simple yet creative ways teams express their support. She encourages fellow walkers to embrace the fun and creativity of making team T-shirts too. “Especially for the younger kids, it was really nice to see the creativity of the shirts,” she noted.

Ava’s Advice

Over the years, Ava has gleaned wisdom from her experiences. She stresses the significance of connecting with others living with T1D, even if it means stepping outside one’s comfort zone. “The feeling of having another person understand and relate to what you are going through will always make you feel less alone,” Ava shares.

Moreover, Ava advocates for embracing one’s T1D journey without shame. “I was diagnosed in middle school, a time where I just wanted to fit in, and I would be ashamed of having diabetes,” she admitted.

Now, she encourages open conversations about T1D, seizing every opportunity to educate others and dispel misconceptions surrounding the disease. Lastly, she recommends fruit strips and peanut butter crackers as delicious, on-the-go low sugar snacks!!

Ava does not just walk for herself but for every individual living with T1D. Her story is one of empowerment, community, and the unwavering belief that, together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by type 1 diabetes.

Join Ava at a JDRF One Walk this Spring – Columbus on Sunday April 28 or at Kings Island on Saturday June 1.  Register today at walk.jdrf.org!