Maxim Model Jody Palmer : Walk For a Cause

Jody Palmer recently participated in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation(JDRF) annual Walk to Cure Diabetes in Houston. JDRF is the leader in research leading to a cure for type 1 diabetes in the world. It sets the global agenda for diabetes research, and is the largest charitable funder and advocate of diabetes science worldwide.

The mission of JDRF is to find a cure for diabetes and its complications through the support of research. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that strikes children and adults suddenly, and can be fatal. Until a cure is found, people with type 1 diabetes have to test their blood sugar and give themselves insulin injections multiple times or use a pump - each day, every day of their lives. And even with that intensive care, insulin is not a cure for diabetes, nor does it prevent its eventual and devastating complications, which may include kidney failure, blindness, heart disease, stroke, and amputation.

Since its founding in 1970 by parents of children with type 1 diabetes, JDRF has awarded more than $1.3 billion to diabetes research, including more than $156 million in FY2008. In FY2008, the Foundation funded more than 1,000 centers, grants in laboratories, hospitals, and industry, and fellowships in 22 countries. The annual Walk to Cure Diabetes is a fundraising event held by the foundation to raise the awareness on type 1 Diabetes and to raise funds for laboratory and research.

Jody's participation at the annual walk was a bit personal. As a token of appreciation for her participation, Jody was given an award at the 2008 Houston Walk to Cure Diabetes Awards Reception. Thanks to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and to people like Jody Palmer who continue searching for a cure and putting hope to the lives of those with diabetes.