Hi, my name is Jackson Hulse. I turn 8 on April 15^th. I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes on February 12, 2014, a little over a year ago. Before I was diagnosed, I was really thirsty all the time and having to use the restroom more than I normally did. My Grandma noticed these symptoms and mentioned to my parents that they should probably have me checked out. After checking my glucose, my pediatrician sent us straight to the ER. I spent 3 days in the hospital where my family and I had to learn how to treat my diabetes. The finger pricks and injections were scary and hurt a lot, but I got used to them pretty quickly. I attended Little Shots camp this past July, where I learned to give my own injections. My parents were SO proud of me! A little over a month ago, I received an insulin pump. I love the convenience of not having to do four injections a day.

I have not let my diabetes slow me down at all. Since being diagnosed, I have played soccer, basketball, and baseball. I spend my summers at the lake where I love to swim and fish (which is why my parents chose a waterproof pump for me!). I am a boy scout. I love to read, especially Harry Potter books. Sometimes my friends say to me, “I could never give myself shots like that”. I just tell them it is something that I have to do every day, like brushing my teeth.

Dr. Watkins, my endocrinologist, told us about the Breakthrough T1D Walk to Cure Diabetes. We decided to form a team. I named it “Team Jackson, Diabetes Warriors” because we are fighting to find a cure. Our team helped raise money to support research for a cure. My school also did a fundraiser and raised over $370  that I took to the Breakthrough T1D office. I am very lucky to have such a wonderful support system of family and friends. I am determined that there will be a cure in my lifetime!