AYUDA
Hello friends and family!
I am asking for your financial support for a very personal cause. This summer I will be traveling to Dominican Republic with an organization called AYUDA, AMERICAN YOUTH UNDERSTANDING DIABETES ABROAD. We will work with underprivileged children affected by juvenile diabetes.
I am honored to have been selected out of hundreds of applicants to embark on this journey. This program so perfectly combines two of my passions; speaking Spanish and working with children.
My participation in AYUDA means I need to raise 5,000 by May 28th. So I am asking for your assistnace. Every dollar donated will help fund educational programs and go directly to children in need.
José Gabriel’s Story
In 1984, José Gabriel, a six-month-old boy in Quito, Ecuador, went into a coma and was diagnosed with type 1 (juvenile) diabetes. Despite the efforts of his parents, both of whom were physicians, José could not stay healthy. Eight years later José lapsed into another coma. With no other option, his family saved money and sent their son to the U.S. for treatment where they discovered that a lack of education is as dangerous as a lack of insulin.
|
What is AYUDA?
AYUDA was founded in 1996 by two teenagers with a vision inspired by the plight of José Gabriel. AYUDA is dedicated to working with local diabetes communities to develop and implement sustainable diabetes programs throughout the world, with its initial focus emerging out of Latin America.
From June 18th to July 6th, our group will collaborate with local diabetes foundation “Aprendiendo a Vivir” based in Santo Domingo. We will work closely with local staff, medical students and youth leaders to plan and implement community outreach projects to motivate and support children with diabetes and their families. In addition, the team will work together to run Campo Amigo Dominicano, a three-day overnight diabetes camp targeting recently diagnosed children and their families.
My Connection
In August of 2008 I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes; an indescribable life change. Through my ups and downs, I have become emotionally invested in the disease and its impact on those it affects. Every day is has its ups and downs, but each day I learn more about myself and how perseverance through hardship is what makes me who I am. Although a struggle, I continue to appreciate more how fortunate I really am and find ways to turn my hate towards this disease into positive action.
|
|
I need to raise $5,000 by May 28th. Please help me reach my goal!!
I appreciate anything you can give to this crucial cause!
Love,
Jessie
|