Maureen Krauss

I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes when I was 12 years old–actually the day before my 13th birthday. No one in my family had diabetes, so we did not recognize the symptoms, but I surely had them all! I was very sick but what brought me to the Doctor was that I was an all A student, however my gym teacher was threatening me with a B because I could not complete the skills for the Presidential Physical Fitness program in May. This was horrifying to me. I was just too weak – my blood sugar ended up being over 700 and I had lost significant weight. I could not run around the track in gym without stopping. So I was finally diagnosed and went in the hospital for 12 days to get my blood sugar under control. I actually started to feel better as soon as the insulin kicked in. I remember when my Mom and I went to the local American Diabetes Association to get information, and I started to receive magazines and booklets on how to take care of myself, I was a pretty smart 13 year old! The thing in the readings that impressed me the most was the medals that were given to long term diabetics, I was inspired that someday I wanted one of those! I have tried to take care of myself. I was blessed to have two wonderful children. I have no complications – and hope to keep it that way! I am a CEO and travel extensively around the world for my job and for fun. I have served on a local Diabetes Association Board, have fund raised for diabetes, and counseled many individuals on their path with diabetes. I would cherish a Journey Award as it was an inspiration when I was diagnosed and throughout my diabetes journey. I have always thought of them, and here I am, 50 years later. I look forward to my 75 year request as well! Thank you for your consideration!