At just 7 years old, Colt was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. Colt’s diagnosis came in an untraditional way. His mom began noticing changes that didn’t seem quite right—low energy, difficulty gaining weight, frequent trips to the restroom, and an inability to shake common illnesses. In February 2025, his pediatrician agreed to run bloodwork, which showed an elevated A1C. The family was sent home with a blood sugar meter and guidelines for monitoring his levels. By July, after a blood sugar reading of over 300, Colt was admitted to Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, where he was officially diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. Further testing confirmed the diagnosis. Colt tested positive on all 4 of 4 Type 1 diabetes antibody tests, confirming the autoimmune nature of his condition. He was also tested for MODY (Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young), a rare genetic form of childhood diabetes. While MODY was ruled out, genetic testing unexpectedly revealed an unrelated gene mutation of unknown origin and significance. At this time, doctors do not know what this mutation means for Colt’s future health—adding another layer of uncertainty to an already complex diagnosis.

Despite all of this, Colt has adjusted as well as any 7-year-old could to a life-changing, lifelong condition. He amazes us daily with his resilience, courage, and strength. He has already faced more medically than many do in a lifetime. Colt wears a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) 24/7 and is completely insulin dependent. The CGM tracks his glucose levels to help keep him safe from dangerous highs and lows. However, CGMs are not perfect—they can lag 10–15 minutes behind real-time blood sugar levels and, at times, can give false readings or be more than 50 points off. For a growing child who is still learning how his body feels at different glucose levels, this margin of error can be dangerous.

This is why we are raising funds for a Diabetic Alert Dog (DAD). These highly trained dogs can detect dangerous blood sugar changes before a CGM by using their extraordinary sense of smell. They can alert caregivers to impending highs and lows—day or night—helping prevent medical emergencies and providing a critical layer of protection that technology alone cannot always offer. A Diabetic Alert Dog would help keep Colt safe at home, at school, while sleeping, and everywhere in between. This dog would grow up by Colt’s side—offering constant companionship, protection, and peace of mind as his best friend.

Unfortunately, insurance does not cover the cost of a Diabetic Alert Dog or the extensive training required. Funds raised will go toward the training through Diabetic Alert Dogs of America, as well as required travel costs for Colt and his family to bring the dog home. No matter the size, every donation brings us one step closer to giving Colt greater safety, independence, and confidence as he navigates life with Type 1 Diabetes. Thank you for your kindness, support, and prayers—and for helping make a meaningful difference in Colt’s life.