Chase-ing for a cure

SEELEY LAKE - When the annual Junior Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) event in Missoula was canceled, the Cahoon family was not discouraged. They decided they would still do the walk in Seeley Lake despite COVID-19 to raise money and awareness for Type 1 Diabetes research in support of their son.

"The reality of our lives is that Chase will always be a Type 1 Diabetic for the rest of his life," wrote Bekah Cahoon, Chase's mother, in an email. "There is no vaccine that will take it away, there is nothing that we can do except to raise funds for research, raise awareness and continue to educate."

Nearly 40 people turned out to walk with the Cahoons after they posted the invite on social media. They walked from Cahoon's log yard to the Seeley Lake 1-Stop and back along Highway 83 Sunday, April 26. Chase's aunt Chelsea Cahoon made signs for the route and masks for participants. The Cahoons raised over $500 for JDRF that will go directly to Type I Diabetes research.

"We had a great turn out and our fundraising was amazing! As always, I am just so grateful for the love and support our community has shown our son," wrote Bekah. "Chase was so encouraged and feels that love and support."

The Cahoons are discussing doing an annual event in Seeley to raise more funds for research and continue their mission.

"This is a day where we feel hopeful for the future," wrote Bekah. "We truly believe that there is a cure out there and being able to be a part of that scientific breakthrough is such a special thing for our family. Until a cure is found, we will continue to raise money and awareness. That's what our family can do for our son."

For more information about JDRF or to donate visit http://www/JDRF.org