Hello!

My name is Samantha Soper and I have type one diabetes. Type one diabetes is a chronic disease caused by an auto immune disorder that involves the body's immune system attacking and destroying the part of the pancreas responsible for producing insulin. It is often diagnosed in childhood and sometimes attributed to genetics. Without insulin, the body is unable to absorb glucose from the bloodstream. The proper regulation of insulin levels in my body is important to the preservation of my eyes, mental function, mobility, and lifespan. Constant 24 hour attention to my disease (whether I am treating a high or low bloodsugar or maintaining a healthy one) is necessary to my health and ultimately my life. Mistakes are very serious and can cost me my life.

I was first diagnosed when I was 15 years old after I lost over 20 pounds in fat and muscle tissue. At the time I was terrified of needles and I needed to learn to take an injection in the morning when I woke up, at night before I went to bed, at each meal, and for any additional high bloodsugar I needed to treat (at least 5 or 6 a day). I also needed to test my bloodsugar at these times. My wonderful, patient, and supportive mom helped me with all of it for a full year before I took it on myself (at least 1,825 shots later!).

Discovering my insulin pump changed my life. The number of injections I needed to take was reduced to one every three days. More importantly, my health improved dramatically. The time my bloodsugar was in range improved by 30-45% and my risk of complications was reduced. Because of some of the improved technological features it had, my pump could sometimes completely prevent medical events that were otherwise frustrating, exhausting, and terrifying. I have found it easier to travel, participate in the active lifestyle I lead, and live. I am truely blessed and deeply grateful to have had access to this specialized piece of technology where others do not.

At fiesta this year, my pump was crushed by mistake in a liftgate and I had to visit the ER. Unfortunately, my pump has no warrenty and is not currently covered by my insurance. A replacement will cost up to $12,000 when I get the estimate back. At this time, I will be unable to afford a replacement.

The magic of balloons has enchanted me since I was five years old visiting my local balloon festival in Teton Valley. My interest has only grown and over the last 5 years I have had the privilage of working for the Wyoming Balloon Company under Margaret and Andy Breffeilh. I am currently a crew cheif for the company and am thrilled to be attending balloon fiesta for the second year in a row! One day, I hope to fly in a balloon as a pilot. It was suggested to me by our close knit team, that our balloon community might be able to offer me support and I thought I would start a go fund me incase anyone was able to help.

I appreciate your interest, support, and the opportunity to reach out with the deepest amount of sincerity and gratitude.

Samantha