By Oliver Lees
A Sunbury mother and daughter will be hitting the track next month to raise money for diabetes research.
Michelle Ulm’s daughter, Kiara, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes last year at the age of seven.
Drawing on their shared love of running, the pair have entered themselves in the five kilometre Run
Melbourne event, an annual fun run renowned for incorporating participants fundraising for all types of charities.
Michelle said all money donated to their cause will go toward the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
“I would like people to understand that type 1 diabetes is a lifelong autoimmune disease and
how serious and life changing it is,” Michelle said.
“We need to constantly monitor Kiara’s blood glucose levels and to watch her diet and
make sure we carb count.
“Kiara cannot just go to a birthday party and enjoy all the treats without making sure her levels are in range.
“I constantly talk to people about it, but I don’t think they realise the seriousness of it.”
The Ulms family uses specific equipment to monitor Kiara’s glucose levels, which includes a bluetooth device that sends her health readings to her phone.
Michelle said she hopes that by spreading the word she can contribute to a greater understanding of diabetes.
“I hope that Kiara can grow up with the resilience and strength she already has, and continues to do all the things she loves no matter what!”
To view the fundraiser, visit: runmelbourne21.grassrootz.com/jdrf/blue-army
