Donnie and I are writing you on behalf of Michaela.
As you know, Michaela was diagnosed with type 1 (juvenile) diabetes on June 9, 2009 at eight years old. She will be insulin-dependent for the rest of her life. In the short time she has been diagnosed she has already has endured over 500 fingerpricks and insulin injections. In addition to her rigorous blood testing and insulin shots, everything she consumes must be weighed and measured, and her blood levels even need to be checked while she sleeps and plays. Michaela is always a trooper and rarely complains. Michaela continually amazes us and is a blessing to have in our lives as a daily reminder of spirit, humility, and a positive attitude.
There are many devastating diseases in our world right now, and that saddens us. The difference with juvenile diabetes is that wiping it out of existence is extremely attainable and within reach.
Please understand, we are not trying to have a pity session. We truly believe that out of every difficulty comes something good. As parents, it’s our instinct from the moment our kids are born to protect them from any harm. We must do everything in our power to help find a cure for her. It’s our mission to avoid the heart and kidney disease, blindness, amputation, and early death that is a reality for many people with juvenile diabetes.
The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) is the #1 non-profit funder of diabetes research worldwide. One of JDRF’s largest fundraising events is the "Walk to Cure Diabetes." We have formed a team named "Michaela’s Team" and have raised money towards this cause. This year’s walk will be held on Saturday September 12th at 10:00A.M.
If you are interested, there are three ways you can help us make a difference for Michaela:
You can join our Family Team, known as "Michaela’s Team," which consists of family and friends who collect pledges and walk with us.
http://walk.jdrf.org/register.cfm?id=87411900Send your donation and contact others in your circle of family and friends to donate as well. If you choose to raise donations yourself, you may forward this letter or write your own.
http://walk.jdrf.org/support.cfm?id=87411900You can send our family a tax-deductible contribution in any amount, made payable to JDRF.
http://walk.jdrf.org/support.cfm?id=87411900 or you may give them to us to deliver on the morning of the walk in Michaela’s name.
Thank you for helping our family team meet our goal of raising $2,000 this year. Thank you for your support and we would be honored to see you at the Walk on September 12!
The Espinosa Family- Donnie, Wendy, Samantha, Michaela, Brecken, and Trenton
Although this has been a tough year for our family I feel so grateful for all that we have. Donnie and I feel incredibly blessed that our Heavenly Father trusted us with these four wonderful children. Even though some days are hard, I couldn't imagine life without them. What did we ever do before children? I am also grateful for wonderful parents who have support and helped us in so many ways. I have the best two sisters in the whole world too! Our church family has taken such good care of us. I am thankful for a warm home and plenty to eat....and for our jobs that help our family run! We also live in the most beautiful place....yes, we have much to be thankful for!
