Since being diagnosed back in 1999 at age 6, our Development Coordinator Shelby Sharp has dedicated herself to Breakthrough T1D’s mission of creating a World Without T1D. We talked with her to see what motivates her everyday towards finding a cure.

Q: Tell me a little bit about when you were diagnosed.

A: I was 6 at the time and my family lived in St. Louis. We instantly got involved with Breakthrough T1D. Altogether, I have done 18 Walks in different cities. My family has been so amazing and supportive every step of the way. We celebrate my “diaversary” every year together. My mother also has T1D.

Q: What has been the hardest part of growing up with T1D?

A: I think dealing with the stigma of people misunderstanding type 1 vs. type 2. It can be incredibly frustrating at times, but I find that things have gotten better as I’ve gotten older. I try not to get angry with people these days and try to be a resource to better help them understand.

Q: I know, personally, that you have an incredibly cute dog (Bacardi) who you have been training to be a diabetic alert dog, correct?

A: Yes, Bacardi is my best friend and companion. He is already a certified therapy dog, but we have been working on training him to alert me as to when my blood sugar goes too high or too low. It’s been tough, but he has been so amazing during the training. He helps keep me sane every day.

Q: You mentioned your family’s involvement with Breakthrough T1D starting when you were young. What made you pursue a career here?

A: Well, I volunteered with the Breakthrough T1D Greater Missouri and Southern Illinois Chapter growing up and basically consider the staff there a second family. They always made me feel like part of the team. My experience with them is what led me to eventually get a job with Breakthrough T1D. Walk day is also my favorite of the year. It’s just an incredible feeling and has really made a difference in my life.

Q: And you originally started working at the National office in New York City. What made you decide to transfer to the Greater Chesapeake & Potomac Chapter?

A: Working in the National office was an eye-opening experience. I got to see so much of the research side there. But I wanted something more long term and living in New York was taxing. My family is now here in the DMV area and the job just sort of fell into my lap. I am just so happy supporting this organization I have cared about my entire life and having such amazing co-workers!