By Amber Rivera / Staff member
A disease affecting children and adults, and maybe even a fellow classmate, is Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes. November is diabetes awareness month, drawing attention to the sickness that affects approximately 26 million persons in the United States every year.
Diabetes is a disease in which blood glucose levels are above normal. Diabetes affects everyone, even those without the disease. Families and friends of the diagnosed have their lives turned upside down by this horrible sickness.
“One of my best friends was diagnosed last year at age 15,” said sophomore Samantha Cabrera, “now I help raise awareness by participating in recreational camps and walks.”
Even some of the world’s most famous stars are diagnosed with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Nick Jonas from the Jonas Brothers was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when he was only 13. Halle Berry, an Oscar winning actress, was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. Dick Clark, an entertainer and TV Producer was also diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. People like Nick Jonas are determined to do something about it and start great campaigns to raise awareness.
According to FOX News, he had a three-year partnership that he created with Bayer HealthCare. The Jonas Brothers even have their own foundation, which people can help fund at ChangeForTheChildren.org
Blue is the National Diabetes Awareness color and Thursday, November 14 is the National Wear Blue for Diabetes Day.
“My brother has Type 1 diabetes, and I wore blue November 14th in support of him,” said sophomore Gigi Munoz.
The American Diabetes Association is very involved in trying to find a cure for Diabetes. They are working on multiple fronts to protect kids in school.
“Through legislation or regulatory change, we’ve won the battle in 31 states and provide support to educators, parents, and schools nationwide,” says the American Diabetes Association.
Many people are misconceived about what Diabetes can do to the body. They may believe that the person only gets diagnosed with the disease, but they actually receive a lifelong illness.
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Quick facts about diabetes:
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It is the leading cause of new cases of blindness among adults aged from age 20 to 74 years
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About 60 percent to 70 percent of people with diabetes have mild to severe forms of nervous system damage
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Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure, accounting for 44 percent of new cases in 2008
(from the American Diabetes Association Diabetes)
