<!–Saxotech Paragraph Count: 12
–>
She has learned how to test herself, with help change the device that helps deliver insulin, to test for her blood sugar levels and to seek out nutrition when required.
Alli’s parents give her as much power to do what she can on her own, “but we’re always there.”
“It’s way for her to feel like she has some control over her diabetes,” her mother said.
The family also spent time educating school staff, but they made arrangements for Alli to be primarily responsible for her care.
“The more we talk to the nurses, the teachers and staff, the more they gain an appreciation of what she’s going through and how she’s feeling, and that’s important,” Michelle Christy said.
Alli does her part, as well.
“I tell them about the pod that gives me insulin because my pancreas stopped working, or I talk about the small device that helps me test my number,” she said. “When my number is low, (school staff) help me by getting me juice.”
Alli’s dad, Scott, also is active with his daughter and since she was diagnosed become involved with the local chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, having become its president.
Through a pair of fundraising events, a gala dinner each April and a JDF walk in October, the local chapter has averaged $1.5 million in fundraising in recent years, Scott Christy said.
“We’re really trying to make a push to raise awareness right now,” Scott Christy said. “We’ve been successful raising money, and research is moving forward.”
He said he was excited about Alli’s trip to Washington, D.C.
“I think she’ll do great, and it will be a great experience for her,” Scott Christy said.
