The first time I met Andrew, I was visiting my boyfriend Ryan, who teaches high school English in San Jose. The holidays were upon us and Andrew was sporting a colorful Christmas sweater. Ryan had told me that this was the guy who kept him sane through grading season, his partner in lesson planning and what he called "off-site collaboration," before adding "oh, and he's diabetic too," as an afterthought.
Andrew also teaches English, is an avid reader and writer, and coaches volleyball. This summer he married his high school sweetheart, Beth, who is also a teacher. Andrew is also a type 1 diabetic, diagnosed around the same time I was--while still in high school. He occasionally has diabetic students in his classes. This weekend he agreed to share some more reasons to support the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. I especially love his idea that a diabetes cure is within reach. Hey, it could happen.
Until then, we'll take all the support we can get. Team Malibu Pumpers will be taking the state capitol by storm on Sunday, October 2. If Andrew's words inspire you, take a peek at our fundraising page. Thanks again, Mr. Christian.