The turning point came during a visit to the doctor. Initially, they were seeking treatment for Jess's worsening eczema, but it was her excessive thirst that finally raised concerns and a blood glucose level test was conducted. The doctor's words were shattering, "I think she has type 1 diabetes. Go home, pack a bag, and head to the Children's hospital”.
Speaking about the experience, Kristyn reflected:
“I remember saying, 'I'm not taking you to the doctor because you are drinking a lot!'" with hindsight shedding light on the early signs we missed. Jess had been consuming 3-4 liters of water daily, but it was initially chalked up to teenage hormones and exhaustion.”
In a state of shock, they arrived at the hospital and having expected a long wait, they were surprised to be swiftly ushered in for tests, a daunting prospect for Jess, who was needle-phobic. The confusion grew when a nurse brought in a meal and instructed them not to let Jess eat it without insulin. Kristyn questioned the nurse, only to receive the aloof response, "Jess can't eat without insulin." It was a surreal moment that marked the beginning of their education about T1D.
After that first day, Kristyn and her family soon realized they had a lot to learn. They made an agreement to face T1D head-on, to educate themselves, and not let it define Jess's life but rather allow her to live freely and manage T1D along the way.
As Jess adapted to managing her condition, the family and friends who supported them decided to participate in the Brisbane Chermside walk, an hour's drive away, to raise awareness and funds for T1D research. The following year, they took matters into their own hands and organised the Redlands One Walk, closer to home, bringing their local community together.
"I felt so helpless. I couldn't take diabetes from Jess and I would not be able to find a cure myself. However, what I could do was channel my efforts into fundraising, contributing to the collective mission of funding researchers in their mission to find a cure.”
Since its inception in 2013, the Redlands One Walk has raised an average of $10,000 annually, with the hope of contributing even more to the cause in the future. Kristyn and Jess alongside their dedicated team, organise a multitude of activities, including children's activities, a BBQ, coffee cart, and a raffle.
Kristyn is now a part of the JDRF Australia team as Queensland's Community Fundraising Manager, however, she has a long history of giving back to the T1D community. This year marks the 11th Redlands One Walk, a testament to her unwavering commitment.
“My dedication to JDRF will not change until there is a cure. I have true hope that this will happen, as I have already seen incredible changes to T1D management in the last 12 years, making Jess's life easier."
Are you interested in becoming a One Walk regional host for 2024, and creating a legacy like Kristyn and Jess'? Reach out to the JDRF team at walksupport@jdrf.org.au for more information.
