About Us — Diabetes Diagnosis
Diabetes became our life in 2001 when my daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 3. Living in a small town in Kansas, Kirstin was the only diabetic I knew. We were asking ourselves, what is diabetes? I am a single mom who joined the millions of parents who saw their life changed by this disease. Ten years later, I find myself still hoping and praying for that miracle cure. While we have learned to cope with the diabetes diagnosis, it wears me out since I am concerned constantly. 
The younger the child, the more stressful it can be since the child does not comprehend the reason for the extra care.
When my sister moved to the Minneapolis, Minnesota area, I saw a chance for us to be closer to where the diabetes research is taking place. The Fortune 500 company, Medtronics, is located in the Twin Cities and most diabetes technology originates there. The Mayo Clinic, and the Diabetes Research Institute is located in Minneapolis. We started UR Diabetes to advocate for diabetes. My hope is that we can have a direct line to the key players and help others who are living with this disease. I’d like to be able to provide, to you, beneficial information and support in your journey. We are not alone with this disease. 
My sister, Gwen, is a teacher by trade. She is working in a school district part time and teaches computer exploration. Without her, I would not have the technology knowledge to create websites and blogs. Gwen has some added interest in diabetes research. She has agreed to take over guardianship of my daughter should anything happen to me. I want her to be knowledgeable about diabetes so she can make sure that Kirstin is well taken care of.
As a registered nurse, Sharon DeKock will answer the health-related questions that arise from our community.
Sharon has a Bachelor of Science Degree from Wichita State University, Wichita, Kansas. She also has a Master of Science Degree in Nursing from the University of Phoenix. With a background in working in a variety of settings, Sharon has experience teaching, public health, administration, and home health care.
As a fourth-year dental hygiene student, my niece Taylor Poore has agreed to help provide information regarding our oral health. Much of her research and clinic experience relates to all types of individuals. She has some really great tips and reflections to share from her practices. 
Disclaimer: We are not doctors; all statements made by us are our own. The information provided on this website is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your health professional.
Contact Gwen: You can email me at info@urdiabetes.com or write to: 13004 Waconia Ct NE, Blaine, MN 55449.
Purpose of this Website: The purpose of this website is to provide support for people with diabetes in a manner that is easily understood. Most articles are written from personal experiences with diabetes and occasionally a research article will be posted with the author’s permission. New developments, technology and research will be passed along through the appropriate avenues or sites. We are not responsible for the content on any linked sites, or any sites that link to urdiabetes.com.
