Editor’s note: Welcome to the most recent installment of our “WHY I WALK” series. This campaign is all about spotlighting the powerful stories within our
community to inspire and motivate others to get involved. We invite you to
share your own journey and rally support by registering your team. Together, let’s walk with purpose and drive the fight against T1D. Join us today and make a difference!
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Why I Walk: Meri Suzio
We are honored that Meri Suzio has chosen to share her personal journey with Type 1 Diabetes. Her perspective, shaped by a lifetime of living with T1D, offers invaluable insight and inspiration. Discover more about Meri’s reasons for walking and her remarkable story below.
Q: Tell us your story, why do you walk?
A: I walk to help newly diagnosed families that we are more than our condition. I was diagnosed November 2004 at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh at 3 years old. At diagnosis, my blood sugar was estimated to be around 3,000 and I was only an hour away from a diabetic coma. Since that day, I have never let it stop me. I’ve traveled, have a very successful career as a cosmetologist, all while making T1D friends along the way. I love seeing kids say “Mommy, daddy! That lady is just like me”, because I proudly display my CGM and pump sites. I like to think it helps them see they are not alone.
Q: How has T1D impacted your life?
A: There have been challenges at times, but all it is to me is a slight curveball, and I know how to hit it. There are days when I definitely have diabetes burnout (the sleepiness nights, rollercoaster blood sugars) but all in all, I do not think I would be the person I am today without it.
Meri has lived her entire life with T1D, but never let it stop her. Support Meri and all the others living with T1D by registering for Breakthrough T1D’s Pittsburgh Walk on November 2, 2024 here.