Owen's Story

In February, 2018 Type One Diabetes struck our family and changed our lives for forever. When Owen was 15 months old, we found him in his crib with labored breathing and laying in a pool of vomit.  We raced him to the Emergency Room and learned he was in a state of “diabetic ketoacidosis” (DKA).  This is a life-threatening condition that develops when cells in the body are unable to get the sugar they need for energy because there isn’t enough insulin.  Owen’s body was now breaking down his fat and muscle for energy. His official diagnosis…Owen is a Type 1 diabetic.  After 1 day in the pediatric ICU unit, the medical staff was able to slowly drop his sugar levels to avoid brain swelling. We left the hospital with a new responsibility….to be our son’s pancreas.

This disease currently has no cure, which means Owen’s blood-sugar levels will constantly have to be monitored, insulin will be manually administered, and meals will be tightly balanced to keep him healthy and feeling good.  Currently, Owen is on an insulin pump that helps to monitor his blood sugars levels and insulin dosage. This technology has been a game changer for his diabetic journey.

We need to take this unique opportunity to raise awareness and be an advocate for all people affected by T1D. Owen never gets to take a day off.  His days consist of multiple finger sticks, pump insertions, 2am feedings to stop plunging blood sugars, and constant carb counting which prevents this little guy from eating what he wants to eat.  Yet through it all, Owen inspires us because he is the strongest, most courageous, funny little boy. Owen is without a doubt.....our Super Hero.

By donating or joining “Owen’s Heroes” today, you’ll support awareness and research for life-changing breakthroughs to make it safer and easier to live with T1D, with the ultimate goal of finding a cure. ALL proceeds go to either the JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) or local Type 1 Families in need. I’m very confident that in Owen’s lifetime, he will say “I use to have diabetes.”
 

Thank you for your support!

Ashley and Scot Eriksen