A legacy of determination
Patricia Maddix has lived with type 1 diabetes (T1D) for more than 64 years. Diagnosed just before her twelfth birthday, Patricia spent her earliest years with T1D using glass syringes and urine testing strips to manage her condition. Experiencing early complications, she began struggling with her vision in 1973.
"I was studying to become a dietitian and had to put my nose in the book to read. A diabetologist at the university diagnosed me with proliferative retinopathy, and I received laser treatment to stop the progression," recalls Patricia. Then, in 2002, Patricia started to fully lose her vision.
Patricia's determination never allowed T1D or vision challenges stop her as she trained to work as a clinical dietitian and later went on to serve others as a Certified Diabetes Educator. Through her work, she learned about Breakthrough T1D.
"I had the opportunity to attend the ADA Scientific Sessions. During this, they shared about Breakthrough T1D (JDRF at the time) and the wonderful advancements that were happening through their work," shares Patricia.
To ensure that all people facing T1D benefit from life-changing breakthroughs, Patricia has become an integral voice in advocating for accessibility for the blind and vision impaired.
"I, along with others from The Accessible Insulin Pump Task Force, advised staff at Tandem during the development and manufacturing of the Mobi [insulin pump]," notes Patricia. "Today, the Mobi, along with the Omnipod 5, is accessible for those with vision impairment."
Patricia's unwavering commitment to access for all inspires her support and passion for Breakthrough T1D.
"The research and ways it has impacted my life has been such a wonderful thing," shares Patricia. "I want to support Breakthrough T1D as much as I can to help make a difference. This is why I included a gift to the organization in my living trust."
Patricia's gift, and gifts from others like her, are an inspiring example of the many ways Breakthrough T1D supporters continue to help make everyday life better for people facing T1D. "Life with T1D can be tough, but if we put effort towards it, together, we can make life with T1D better," Patricia encourages.
