By Elizabeth Grady
Promotions Editor
Approximately 80 people a day are diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in the U.S., according to the American Diabetes Association. At this rate, it would take 25 days for the entire St. Bonaventure student body to get the disease.
St. Bonaventure’s women’s softball team continues to devote itself to the cause through its co-sponsorship of The Second Annual Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) Walk for A Cure tomorrow along the Allegheny River Trail. Check-in begins at 9 a.m., and the walk starts at 10 a.m. on the west side of campus near the tennis courts.
In addition to its support of the JDRF, tonight the softball team will host a Chinese lantern launch at the softball field. Depending on weather and final approval from the school, 20 biodegradable lanterns will be released to kickoff the walk.
“We hope to bring awareness to Juvenile Diabetes and remind the campus community that our walk is the following day,” said Liz Threehouse, the event manager.
Supporting the cause has become a tradition for team members, as it is their third year fundraising for JDRF.
“Softball chose JDRF because of the number of people, especially children, we know that have Type 1 diabetes,” said Mike Threehouse, the head softball coach. “…the more we looked into the disease the more we realized how many people we could help if we became involved.”
Last year, the team raised $4,000 for the cause and hopes to increase this year’s goal to $5,000. However, according to Mike, money isn’t the primary goal of their fundraising.
“We would also like to make the community aware of Type 1 (Diabetes) and our support for it,” Mike said. “Awareness is just as important as any money. When you understand the need, help will follow.”
Sponsorship forms are available online at www.gobonnies.com/sports/w-softbl/index, or you can bring a donation to the walk tomorrow. The walk will take place rain or shine.
gradyea09@bonaventure.edu
