13-year-old Snowboarder Conquers 30,000 Vertical Feet for Diabetes Fundraiser
A Passion for Snowboarding and a Mission to Help Others
Conley Baldwin, a 13-year-old from Corinth, New York, has set his sights on a remarkable challenge. This winter, he plans to snowboard 30,000 vertical feet on 20 different mountains, all while raising money for type 1 diabetes research and awareness.
A Personal Connection to the Cause
Conley was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at just two years old. For his parents, Samantha and Robert, it meant constant monitoring of Conley’s blood sugar levels and administering insulin. Despite the challenges, Conley has learned to live with his condition and has developed a strong sense of independence.
A Love for Snowboarding
Conley’s passion for snowboarding is evident when he’s on the slopes. “I can be a little bit more free-spirited like I can take a different trail. I can kind of choose my own path,” he says. For Conley, snowboarding offers a sense of freedom and adventure that he cherishes.
The Fundraising Effort
Conley’s mission is to raise money for Breakthrough T1D, a nonprofit organization dedicated to finding a cure for type 1 diabetes. He is also working to sponsor two children for an upcoming camp run by Riding on Insulin, a nonprofit founded by snowboarder Sean Busby, who was also diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.
Sharing the Journey
The Baldwins share every step of Conley’s journey on the Type 1 Alpine Adventures Facebook page. They hope to create a local network for kids and families living with diabetes, offering support and resources.
A Message of Hope and Awareness
Conley’s goal is to show others that they are not alone in their struggles with type 1 diabetes. “Show other people that you’re not alone. You can do this. And there’s other people like you. And you can do all the regular things that everybody else gets,” he says.
Update on the Journey
As of February 20, Conley has snowboarded down 27,606 vertical feet, with 2,394 left to go. You can follow his progress on the Type 1 Alpine Adventures Facebook page.
Conclusion
Conley’s remarkable journey is a testament to the power of determination and the importance of raising awareness for type 1 diabetes. His story is an inspiration to all, and we wish him the best of luck in his mission to reach 30,000 vertical feet.
FAQs
* What is type 1 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack and destroy the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.
* What is Breakthrough T1D?
Breakthrough T1D is a nonprofit organization dedicated to finding a cure for type 1 diabetes.
* What is Riding on Insulin?
Riding on Insulin is a nonprofit founded by snowboarder Sean Busby, which offers action sports camps for diabetics of all ages.
* Where can I follow Conley’s journey?
You can follow Conley’s progress on the Type 1 Alpine Adventures Facebook page.
