DESPITE already raising more than $50,000 to combat Type 1 diabetes, Shannon Doody refuses to rest until researchers find a cure for the mysterious autoimmune disease.
The Murdoch teenager is preparing for her sixth straight JDRF One Walk, the biggest Type 1 diabetes fundraiser in the world.
She and her 25-strong team, Shannon’s Angels, are aiming to contribute at least another $5000 at the completion of the 7km trek, which takes place in Burswood on October 26.
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READ NOWDiagnosed as a 12-year-old, Miss Doody is well accustomed to the disruptive nature of diabetes.
“The most challenging part is just the constant daily routine required to monitor your insulin levels,” she said.
“You get up in the morning and check your levels and you know you are going to be doing the same thing over and over and it’s never-ending.
“Sometimes that can get to you but you have to just keep going and remember there are harder things to deal with in the world.”
A dedicated swimmer and coach with the South Shore Swimming Club, Miss Doody also has to deal with interrupted training sessions and said travelling with a bag full of insulin injections made passing through customs an interesting experience.
“Even if I’m not around when they find a cure, I’m going to keep doing my part to help fund research for future generations because I know how difficult it can be to live with Type 1 diabetes,” she said.
The annual JDRF One Walk raises more than $85 million for Type 1 diabetes each year and Miss Doody said the event also renewed hope for everyone living with the disease.
“JDRF has people that come along and talk about the new technologies and advancements in diabetes treatment which is always interesting to hear about,” she said.
DRF is the largest non-government funder of type 1 diabetes research. The cause of the disease is currently unknown, although it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
To donate to Miss Doody’s fundraising campaign, visit https://jdrf-walk-wa-2016.everydayhero.com/au/shannon.