Dylan Stringer’s mission of raising money for an automatic insulin pump has received a significant boost thanks to a sizeable donation from Kiwanis Echuca-Moama.
Kiwanis Echuca-Moama, a not-for-profit group aimed at supporting children in the community, has donated $1000 to Dylan’s fundraising effort.
Twelve-year-old Dylan was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in July 2020 and is looking to raise $8000 to purchase a life-changing automatic insulin pump.
After reading about Dylan’s fundraising campaign in the Riverine Herald, Kiwanis Echuca-Moama knew instantly they wanted to do something to help.
Terry James is the vice president of Kiwanis Echuca-Moama, and he said Dylan’s story resonated strongly with the group.
“We felt it [the donation] is a show of support for Dylan,” Mr James said.
“He clearly is a fit young fella, he’s not brought this on himself, and he deserves support from the community.”
“It [diabetes] restricts that young man in his activities and if this opens up for him to have a full life, it’s really important that he has this support.”
Kelly, Dylan’s mum, said she was overjoyed when she heard news of the Kiwanis’ donation.
“It just about brought tears to my eyes, really,” she said.
“It just made me realise the community support we have in this small town, it’s just awesome.”
She said Dylan was thrilled when he heard about the donation.
“He could not believe it, he is just ecstatic,” she said. “He did not expect anyone in town to make that sort of a donation for him.”
“Just today it’s built his confidence and given him hope that he can reach this goal.”
There is currently no cure for Type 1 diabetes, and Dylan must give himself insulin injections throughout the day and constantly monitor his blood glucose levels.
The pump is worn on a belt, with a computer that monitors his blood glucose level attached to a line and a needle that is inserted into his stomach, which automatically injects insulin into the body.
Having the pump would mean that instead of having to give himself four needles every day, Dylan would instead need just one injection a fortnight, and managing his insulin levels would become much easier.
Kiwanis is a worldwide service club with a focus on supporting children in the community. It was founded in the United States in 1915 and first came to Australia in the late 60s, with groups in over 100 countries around the world.
The Echuca-Moama Kiwanis club has been active in the community since 1988, with more than 20 local members.
The generous donation from Kiwanis means Dylan’s fundraising has now surpassed $2100, but Mr James said he hoped the community could do more.
“Please put yourself in their shoes. It could be your child, and if you can put $20 in, do it,” he said.
To make a donation to Dylan visit https:/gofund.me/6f2295e3
People wanting to get involved with Kiwanis Echuca-Moama can contact club president Tim Dawes on 0428 503 407 or visit kiwanis.org.au