Help Latoya raise money

Hey Running Fat Chef fam! Latoya Shauntay Snell checking in here. 

While many may know me for my fitness and culinary adventures, one of my most proudest moments is becoming a parent to my son William Eric Snell, Jr. My husband Eric and I did the typical check for 10 fingers and 10 toes when he was born and thought everything was okay. William, Jr had a regular examination for summer camp in 2015 and within a day, we were instructed to rush him back to the doctor office - this was the first time we heard the term "leaking sugar." He was immediately rushed to the emergency room and our lives changed that day. 

William spent July 4th weekend, a month away from his eighth birthday in pediatric care. As his parents, we were mortified and uncertain how we would cover medical expenses, learn a new way of living and most importantly, help our son navigate through a new normal living life with type one diabetes. 

Approximately 110 people are diagnosed daily. Although incredible strides were made over time with type one diabetes research, there is still no cure to date.  I'm asking for your help to: 

1. Raise awareness about type one diabetes; 

2. Help me reach and surpass my fundraising goal; 

3. Share this campaign with as many people as possible; 

4. Be an advocate to those with type one diabetes

There's a huge unspoken stigma that surround chronic illness, particularly invisible illness. Some people don't feel comfortable sharing their own story, let alone asking for help without fear of being believed or being looked down on. Let's reduce this stigma with proper education, research, funding and love. 

This year, I'll be running Pittsburgh Half Marathon weekend in honor of my amazing teenager and for people impacted by Type One daily. As an advocate, I learned from my son that life moves forward despite chronic illness. He's taught us resilience and vulnerability. But I also learned by his example that this diagnosis is tough on the mind, body and spirit. Please help me raise awareness and reach my goal. 

With all my love, 

Latoya Shauntay Snell

William Jr's Mama