After being revived from a coma, I was told that I was diabetic. Not knowing what diabetes was, one can imagine the shock. Being a spontaneous teenager (16 years old), syringes and blood testing was not on my agenda and controlled eating was not a bonus. After several years of denial (or bad control) and the realization of how tired I was of letting diabetes rule my life, I accepted the card I was dealt with and set goals for myself.

It has been a challenge juggling my exercise, food, and insulin but I feel much better.

Now that I feel better, I feel the need to do more....because I CAN now. I started my road to a healthier lifestyle by keeping my doctors appointments, joining a gym, taking up kayaking, rafting, camping and hiking, and most importantly, keeping a positive attitude. My next step in achieving one of my dreams is to trek Mount Kilimanjaro in 1999 (my first ascent on any mountain/volcano).

I am happily engaged to Robert Ing (my college sweetheart) for four years and am blessed and grateful in having him in my life. He has been more than supportive and understanding and stood by my side at all costs.

IDEA2000 reminds me that I am not alone in the quest to live a great life and that I am not the only diabetic to question the limits that have been implanted in my mind throughout the years.

With further research, there will be more technologies available to improve the lives of diabetics, and friends and families of diabetics (remember, they go through it too). With these technologies, I believe everyone is entitled to benefit from them. Which brings me to IDEA2000.

Born in Chile, Valparaiso (the longest country in the world - found on the most western part of South America), I am proud that IDEA2000 acknowledges the fact that diabetes education and treatment needs are scarce in South America.

For this reason, members of IDEA2000 are going to climb Cerro Agoncagua and raise money for an international awareness of diabetes. Although I am not a climber, I am proud to be a part of such a worth while cause. I am also grateful to finally bump into a group of Type I diabetics who are not only living to the fullest, but willing to help others in the process.

IDEA2000, is here to open the eyes of diabetics, as well as their friends and families.

It may be difficult at times but with perseverance and if the need for a full and happy life is there, it is achievable.

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