Youth Venture

July 2, 2007 - 11:24am — AYUDA

Jose Gabriel's Story

In 1984, Jose Gabriel, a six-month-old boy in Quito, Ecuador, went into a coma and was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Jose's parents (both physicians) spent practically all there income on Jose's insulin thinking his health would improve, but they could not heep him healthy. Jose's family came to the U.S. for treatment where they soon discovered what was wrong-- they were lacking the tools and skills necessary to manage Jose's condition. They did not know how diet, exercise, daily routines, and stress affect diabetes. Nor did they understand the importance of blood glucose monitoring. Ther realized that a lack of education is just as dangerous as a lack of insulin. AYUDA was founded so youth like Jose Gabriel would be able to recieve the education and tools they need to live happier and healthier lives with diabetes.