Team Northeast Wisconsin is working hard training and fundraising for the 2015 Ride to Cure Diabetes Season. This year, one of the coolest parts of the Ride is the amount of Youth Riders our team has. Most of our youth riders parents and even grandparents have participated in numerous JDRF Rides. Now their children are carrying on the tradition and are old enough to participate. So get ready to meet our youth riders. Read about these amazing kids and hear their stories.

Meet Anja, T1D, riding for her cure

This is Anja’s first Ride. Anja’s favorite motto is “I have diabetes, but diabetes doesn’t have me.” She is really excited about her first ride! Her parents are also riding for the first time and are so excited and proud to ride alongside her.

Meet Clare, T1D, riding for her cure

This is Clare’s first year riding. Clare will be riding in Burlington with her mom. Clare says, “I am grateful for this opportunity! I am especially thankful to those who have supported our efforts for the upcoming ride in VT. It has been so much fun logging miles. Let’s turn type one into type none!”

Meet Samantha, T1D, riding for her cure

This is Samantha’s first year riding a road bike – she has met her challenges in stride, whether it is wind, rain, low numbers, learning to un- clip at the stop signs, or changing a tire. We couldn’t be prouder of her for giving her all!  Samantha’s mom and dad are long time riders and are looking forward to having Samantha join them this year!

Meet Holden, 2^nd year riding for JDRF, riding in honor of his sister with T1D

Holden and his mom Sarah did their first century ride last year in Lacrosse. They enjoyed it so much that they signed up for TWO rides this year! Holden says, “I enjoy riding with the other JDRF riders and spending time with my mom and of course raising money to help find my sister’s cure from T1D.”

Meet Caden, 2^nd year rider, riding for his cure

This is Caden’s second year riding.  He will be riding either in Nashville or Arizona depending on his parents work schedules.  Last year he completed his first century ride with the Northeast WI Team and his dad, Lee, in La Crosse. Prior to that, Caden’s parents have participated in the Rides as well as his Grandpa Al, who is truly responsible for introducing the family to the Ride To Cure Diabetes Program. Al participated in the Rides 3 years prior to the family ever knowing Caden would be diagnosed with T1D.
When Caden reflects on why he rides he says,  “I like to do this because it helps me understand how to better manage my diabetes and I’m actively doing something to help find a cure.  Plus,  I get to see the beautiful country.”

We truly know that when cycling and charity combine…magic happens. Let’s hear it for the Northeast Wisconsin Ride Team! For more information on how to get involved go to www.ride.jdrf.org.