Walking for a Cure
- Andrea Salazar
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 hours ago
Five Years Strong: A Mother’s Journey of Strength, Purpose, and Hope
Five years ago, my life — and my child’s — changed forever. The day type 1 diabetes entered our world, I didn’t just become a diabetes mom; I became a protector, an advocate, and a lifelong student of courage. These past five years haven’t simply measured time with T1D — they have measured growth, resilience, and a strength I never knew I had until I needed it most.
What began as a diagnosis quickly transformed into a mission. A mission to live boldly, love fiercely, and advocate tirelessly — not only for my child, but for every family learning how to navigate life with type 1 diabetes. This road has been filled with challenges, but it has also been filled with purpose.
One of the most defining moments of this journey was being welcomed into the Breakthrough T1D world, a community that gave our fight direction and hope. That door was opened by Jean Bobin — someone who is not only an incredible friend, but also a mentor and a person I deeply admire. Jean didn’t just introduce us to an organization; she showed us what leadership, compassion, and commitment to this cause truly look like. Through her guidance and example, my advocacy found its voice.
I have never walked this path alone. Standing beside me has been my incredible support system — my pack. The people who show up on the hardest days, who celebrate the victories big and small, and who help carry the weight when it feels heavy. Together, we have faced the highs and lows of this disease with courage, determination, and hope.
What once felt overwhelming has slowly been transformed into purpose. The fear became fuel. The pain became power. Each challenge strengthened my resolve, and every step forward reaffirmed why this fight matters so deeply — not just for my child, but for the future.
This isn’t just our story. It’s a celebration of infinite strength, of community, and of mentorship. And it is a promise — to keep walking, to keep advocating, and to keep believing.
Until the day we find a cure, we walk together.
