Schools

Barkalow Students Walk Toward a Cure for Juvenile Diabetes

Sponsor a student in their annual walk-a-thon and support the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

When JoAnn Calvanico of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) asked a gymnasium full of students if they knew anyone who had diabetes, 75 percent of the hands in the room went up.

This is why the Physical Education Department has teamed up with JDRF for 3 years in a row to host a walk-a-thon to raise money for the organization.

“The money goes to our Central Jersey Chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation,” explained Calvanico, the JDRF Kids Program Chair. “Our mission is to find a cure for diabetes through research.”

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On Friday, May 11 students will hit the pavement and walk to raise money for JDRF from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Michael Benjamino, physical education teacher at Barkalow, reached out the JDRF to host the event as both a teacher and parent. He said because this disease touches so many people (Over 26 million people) in our country, it is important to educate students.

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Hosting the walk-a-thon gives students the opportunity to raise money for the organization, plus the foundation educates the students about Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes emphasizing the importance of healthy diet and exercise.

According to Calvanico, the foundation was started in the 70’s by a group of parents who has children suffering from Type 1 Diabetes. Since then, research funded by the organization has made huge strides towards improving the lives of all people affected by this disease. One example is the creation of the insulin pump for the reduction of insulin shots throughout the day.

To sponsor a student or donate for the cause, click here.

In addition to this event, you can help support the foundation by attending their annual gala. The event will be on May 19 at 6:00 p.m. at the Stillwell Stables in Colts Neck.

To learn more about the Central Jersey Chapter Gala, please contact the Office at 732-219-6654.


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