Twenty years ago, Jane was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.

At the time, we couldn't have imagined what the next 20 years would look like — the countless blood sugar checks, insulin injections, pumps, sensors, alarms, appointments, highs, lows, and the constant vigilance that comes with living with T1D.

But more than anything, we could not have imagined the love and pride we would come to know and experience everyday. Over the years, we have watched and been inspired as Jane has grown into an incredibly strong, resilient, amazing, young woman. We have learned the true meaning of love and family.

Now, twenty years later, we are celebrating Jane — and marking this milestone in two very special ways.

On a smaller, personal level, Jane and Denise will be getting matching lotus flower tattoos as a symbol of rising above adversity, growing through hardship, and blooming beautifully against all odds. (Pictures to follow).

On a larger, global level, our family has set an ambitious goal of raising $10,000 for the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation — specifically to help find a cure for diabetes for all.

(We really wanted to set the goal for $20,000…$1000 for every year Jane has spent living with diabetes, but thought that might be a little too ambitious. To sweeten the pot, if we hit $20,000, Dave said he would shave his head:)

Why the Diabetes Research Institute (DRI)?

Because their mission is remarkably simple: FIND A CURE.

The DRI and DRI Foundation have a single, laser-focused mission: to discover a biological CURE for diabetes. Their vision is a world without diabetes, and they are dedicated to advancing the most promising research and moving it toward patients as quickly as possible.

The DRIF is a (501)(c)(3) not for profit corporation. It provides the funding that enables DRI researchers to pursue this cure-focused work. It funds global leaders in islet transplantation and cellular therapies to restore natural insulin production. Their stated ambition is so bold that they talk about ultimately putting themselves out of business — because if they find a cure, they will have accomplished what they set out to do.

So, as Jane and our family, mark 20 years with Type 1 diabetes, we are asking you…our family, friends and community to help us look toward a future where diabetes is a thing of the past.

Please consider making a donation to the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation and help us turn Jane's 20-year milestone into hope for the future.

With two rapidly approaching dates, 9/21/26 (Diaversary) and 10/8/26 (DRIF Event), we ask you, if possible, to please make all donations, by 10/8/26. We recognize this is short notice and appreciate your willingness to work with us. Of course, no matter the date, all donations are always welcomed with gratitude.

For Jane. For everyone living with T1D. For the day when Type 1 diabetes is finally cured.

All our love and gratitude,

Dave, Denise, Brooke and Jane