Our family began our type 1 diabetes journey on December 7, 2020 when our then 9 year old son, Henry, was diagnosed at his yearly well-visit. What we thought was going to be a quick check-up quickly turned into an unexpected visit to the emergency room. Emotions overwhelmed our family…sadness, anger, frustration, confusion…as we processed the diagnosis and began to learn about carbs, insulin, injections, meters, highs, and lows.

When arriving back home, we will always remember the question our son asked us, “Why me?” From that day, we decided to turn his frustration into inspiration. In these challenging first days, we knew we needed support and sought inspiration from others. Despite the social distancing challenges of COVID, we immediately became involved with JDRF and were inspired by the families who were willing to share their stories and journey with us. Through social media we connected with a professional lacrosse player who has type 1 and Henry talked with him on Zoom! We researched other famous T1D athletes (Henry loves sports!) to inspire our son. As a new T1D family, you may have the same question as Henry did, and we encourage you to find a source of inspiration for your child and family. And to answer his question, “Why me?”….Henry now understands that T1D is part of his “story” and just like your T1D child, he inspires others daily through his bravery, empathy, and courage in handling the challenges this disease brings.

Type 1 Diabetes hasn’t stopped Henry from doing the thing he loves the most, which is playing lacrosse. He’s played on numerous teams, throughout Maryland and Pennsylvania and was even awarded “Camper of the Week” at Malvern Prep Lacrosse Camp. Henry strives to be the best he can possibly be and refuses to let this disease hold him back.

Since this is a life journey, our family encourages you to find “joy in the challenge.” Joy is witnessing the support of hundreds of people join “Team Henry” to support the JDRF One Walk. Joy is watching your child do all of the things he did prior to diagnosis. Joy is connecting with other T1D families as they rally around a common cause. It takes time, but you too will find joy by joining the JDRF community. We try to remember that while not every day is great, there is truly something great about every day!

We can’t wait for this year’s JDRF One Walk and hope your family and friends will join us for a day of fun as we help support all of our loved ones on this T1D journey. Lace up your sneakers and meet us at the walk for a family friendly event that includes games, face-painting, inflatables, and an inspirational walk! “Team Henry” knows you will have a great time, but you will also be inspired by these amazing type one warriors and as the JDRF community comes together. Register today to join us on Walk Day!

Amy & Reuben Kraft, “Team Henry”

JDRF Western & Central PA Walk Team

You can join JDRF at the Pittsburgh One Walk, Westmoreland One Walk, or Harrisburg One Walk this fall. Go to walk.jdrf.org to register today!