Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes



Dearest Family and Friends-

As most of you know, our sweet little Hank-man was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes 16 months ago at the young age of 6.  We've been so fortunate to have your incredible support though all the ups and downs this disease creates.  Hank is a rock-star and all of you have seen that first hand.  He continues to amaze me with the courage and diligence it takes to manage this disease and not let it stop him from doing everything he loves to do.  His calloused little fingers have endured countless pokes, his 7 year old body has taken a beating from all the shots and pump sites, and there isn't a carb that passes through his lips without being accounted for.  Through it all, he remains positive and optimistic.  After surviving the first year, I am finally feeling like I'm ready to become part of this amazing diabetes community.  Hank had the opportunity to attend a diabetes camp this summer and we met so many incredible, inspiring families.  I am leading Team Hank for the "Step Out, Walk To Stop Diabetes" event on Saturday, September 8th at Liberty Park in Salt Lake City.  There is no cure for Type 1 Diabetes but we remain hopeful that one day it will become a reality for Hank and the millions of others living with this disease.  Every dollar we raise will go directly towards funding critical research for a cure and protection the rights of people with diabetes.

I realize many of you will not be able to walk with us but if you are around on September 8th, the event is going to be a blast.  If you are interested in running, there will be a 5k fun run starting at 9:15a.m. or if you want to participate in the 5k walk,  it begins at 10:15 a.m.  I'm planning on pushing Sam in a stroller and spending time with everyone who comes out to show their support for Hank.  I'm also planning on providing a little tail-gate breakfast before we walk and after the walk, there will be light refreshments, live entertainment, free health screenings, and a Kids Zone with face painting and activities.  It should be a great time for the entire family.

To donate to this important cause, simply click on this link http://main.diabetes.org/site/TR/StepOut/A2UTH-UtahNevadaArea?team_id=544970&pg=team&fr_id=8423 to get to our team page.  After you donate you can register for the event if you are able to participate in the walk with us.  Hank is pumped about this.  There is nothing he loves more than spending time with family.

Please feel free to contact me anytime with any questions you may have.  I've even joined the facebook world to increase my chances of reaching our fundraising goals.

Again, we can't thank you all enough for your love and support.  It means the world to us.  Much love!
Randy and Annie

2 comments:

Robyn Cox said...

Well, this post certainly made me tear up. I don't think we will make it to the event, but I will for sure donate some money. Thanks for the information Annie. I am sure it will be a wonderful day for all those that attend. Hank truly is an incredible little man. And you my dear are an incredible mom!

sarahwjones said...

Well this certainly can't be the first post that I don't comment on!
Sister- I am so proud of you and all you've done to be the nurse/cheerleader/educator to Hank through all of this. He's so lucky that YOU are his mom. I don't think anyone understands all that this disease requires not only of a child- but of their family. It's an awful lot for anyone and you guys will be a big inspiration to others- diabetic or not- for carrying on and not letting it slow Hank down in his life. I know he's going to impact a lot of people in his life- as will you. You all certainly have with me...and do every single day.
Can't wait for the walk!! Wouldn't miss it for anything! Id walk 5000 miles if it meant a cure!