New Rider Spotlight
Alison Green

Alison Green has participated in the JDRF Walk since 2011 after her son, Teddy, was diagnosed with T1D. Since then, she has raised a total of $12,558 through their walk team – Team TeddyG. This year, she decided to take on a new challenge and sign up for the Ride in Tahoe, CA. We interviewed Alison to see what motivated her to sign up.

When did you first become involved with JDRF & and what or who inspired you to become involved originally? My youngest son, Teddy, was diagnosed with Type 1 in September of 2011 at the age of 10.  He spent months being sick and misdiagnosed.  His symptoms were not typical, so we went through many other tests including CT Scans, vision screenings and being told it was just a virus before diagnosis.  When he was admitted to the hospital after diagnosis, a JDRF volunteer came to our room and brought him a bag of goodies and told us about JDRF and the upcoming walk that October.  We had friends and family come join us for our inaugural walk and were able to raise several thousand dollars in just a few short weeks and we were hooked.

What made you want to get involved with the Ride team and what is one thing that excites you about being involved? I wanted a new challenge this year and heard about the Ride from both the JDRF as well as previous participants.  I used to be a rider many years ago and I’m looking forward to getting back in the saddle again.  Being part of a team, all working towards the same goal, is a really cool experience.

What is one tip you would share with those who are new to fundraising? My one tip would be, don’t be afraid to ask!  People want to help make a difference and donating money is a way for them to do that.

What is a fun fact about you that you’d like the share? My first love of riding came from growing up in KY and involved horses, not bikes.  I was a competitive horse rider and used to bike to the barn.  The horse saddle was much more comfortable!

What makes you want to continue to support JDRF? My son Teddy makes me want to continue supporting JDRF.  Watching what he and other people living with Type1 endure on a daily basis drives me.  I see the impact that JDRF has on both those living with T1D as well as on the research for better treatment and a cure.

Join Alison and the rest of the 2015 Ride Team for an unforgettable experience! For more information, please visit the Ride to Cure Diabetes website or contact Jennie Ellis at 770-395-5980.