Aultman and AultCare are proud to be involved with the JDRF One Walk again this year. The event will be held Saturday, Sept. 17 at the Kent State University Stark Campus.

The event has a single goal – to create a world without type 1 diabetes. The annual walk raises funds for life-changing research for the millions affected by the autoimmune disease. It is also a great opportunity to learn more about type 1 diabetes, which affects 1.25 million Americans, including about 200,000 youth (those under age 20).

Type 1 diabetes most often develops in children or young adults, but can start at any age. In type 1 diabetes, the body can’t make insulin, which is needed to help glucose enter cells for energy. Without insulin, glucose builds up in the blood and causes high blood sugar. People with type 1 diabetes must take daily insulin shots and regularly check their blood sugar levels. The cause is unknown although it is thought that genetic and environmental factors are involved.

The symptoms of type 1 diabetes may appear suddenly and can include the following:

• Extreme thirst
• Frequent urination
• Drowsiness or lethargy
• Increased appetite
• Sudden weight loss
• Sudden vision changes
• Fruity odor on the breath
• Heavy or labored breathing

If you or a loved one are concerned about type 1 diabetes, please talk to your health care provider as soon as possible. It is a manageable disease - and according to JDRF, treatment options are improving all the time.