Trekking Kokoda for kids with Type 1 Diabetes

Hi, my name is Halil. I was diagnosed with Type 1 (Juvenile) Diabetes when I was 12 years old in 1992. This was life changing to my family and I as I had to learn to manage my blood glucose levels through multiple insulin injections per day, constant testing of blood glucose levels, strict diet, exercise and cope with the mental battles of living with diabetes. My diagnosis was a massive shock to the system as I had to come to terms with living with diabetes for the rest of my life. However, I am healthy and I am here.

On the 26th September 2020, our daughter Nisa was also diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of 9. This was devastating for our whole family and it was extremely difficult for me to accept this traumatic experience which took me back to my diagnosis. Nisa is an absolute warrior and inspiration to all of us for being so brave and courageous to manage her diabetes. Yes, she does have her ups and downs but she has quickly adapted to her new lifestyle and is fortunate enough to have an insulin pump and continuous glucose monitoring to make life a little more easy on her.

Diabetes is an invisible medical condition that can take its toll on people living with it. You may see the insulin injections and blood glucose testing but what don't see is the psychological impact it has on people living with it, especially kids. Words can't justify the overwhelming feeling such as the constant thought of "why me", "I can't do this", "I feel useless", or "diabetes is a burden on my life" which can really mess around with a one's wellbeing.

Our family is determined to raise awareness about diabetes and raise funds for the Type 1 Foundation (https://www.type1foundation.com.au/) whom is a charity group that supports Type 1 kids enabling them to remain connected, cared and supported in the community. I have joined forces with the Type 1 Foundation and Kokoda Courage Team who is scheduled to embark on a brotherhood trek (i.e. trek with keen family members of kids with diabetes) 96 kilometres through the lush tropical jungle of Papua New Guinea on 12th to 21st August 2025. This is not going to be easy but I have a mate of mine that will be my wingman on the trek for mental strength and confidence.

My objective is to raise awareness and to inspire Type 1 kids especially my daughter that diabetes should not hold us back from reaching our goals regardless of the challenge that lies ahead of us. My journey will enable me to accomplish a personal achievement but more importantly raise funds for our little Type 1 superheroes. We thank your generous support in advance.

It would greatly appreciated if you can spread the word. Let's do it for the kids!