The Johnson Family

Why Im walking for a cure…

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is more than just a diagnosis—it’s a relentless, lifelong condition that affects every moment of every day for those living with this condition. 

For my family, T1D is deeply personal. My husband, Brad, was diagnosed at 24, and our daughter, Brigitte, was just 19 months old when we were told her tiny body could no longer produce insulin. From that moment, our lives changed forever.

T1D is an autoimmune disease that has no cure. It is not caused by diet or lifestyle, and it cannot be prevented. Those living with it must take multiple insulin injections or use an insulin pump every single day to survive. But insulin is not a cure—it’s life support. Managing T1D means constantly monitoring blood sugar levels, making countless decisions about food, activity, and medication, and dealing with the daily fear of dangerous highs and life-threatening lows. No two days are ever the same.

As a mother and wife, I see firsthand the challenges and resilience it takes to live with this condition. I also know that research is the only way we can change the future for families like mine. That’s why I’m participating in the JDRF Walk—to raise funds for critical research that will help improve treatments and, ultimately, find a cure.

I set an initial goal of $500, then $1000 which I’ve already surpassed thanks to the incredible generosity of friends and family. Now, I’m pushing for $2,000 because every dollar makes a difference. If you can, please consider donating to help fund life-changing advancements for those living with T1D. Your support means the world to me, my family, and so many others affected by this condition.

Together, we can fight for a future without type 1 diabetes

With gratitude,

Renée