Jamie Cripps, who is a key West Coast Eagles forward, joined us in July 2019 as our latest Sports Ambassador.
Since then Jamie has spearheaded our first successful crowdfunding campaign Help Crippa Kick Diabetes Research Goals raising more than $60,000 for our 2021 research program. One significant research grant will be named in his honour later in 2020.
Jamie told us “I haven't let diabetes stop me from playing AFL or doing anything else I dreamt about. But diabetes can be difficult to manage even with new technologies – I think about it every day. We can’t give up on finding a cure”.
Jamie was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes a week before the AFL national draft in 2010 at the age of 18. He had to learn how to manages his diabetes with daily insulin injections and careful monitoring of his blood glucose levels.
Jamie was admitted to hospital seriously ill but he’s learned to tackle the challenge head-on and is now doing his bit to raise funds for research.
“I’m grateful I can manage my diabetes well thanks to research advances, including the discovery of insulin many years ago, but I definitely lost some freedom when I was diagnosed – it’s a burden I would definitely like to live without,” explained Jamie.
“I’m hopeful that by taking on this role with Diabetes Research WA, I can highlight the need for more research into all forms of diabetes.”
You can stil help Crippa kick more research goals here - chuffed.org/project/help-crippa
Like to see the different ways and events where you can help us? Take a look at Everyday Hero It's easier than you think. Grab your tribe and help us do our research!
These guys are amazing. And they have pushed themselves to the limit.....we're so proud. Our support squad keeps growing. From all of us at DRWA thank you!
Yes....we joined the HBF Run For A Reason!! These generous and determined people helped raise funds for us. Their why, their heartfelt stories drive us to continue our work. You can read more by clicking on their photo. We are incredibly grateful for this support, every bit helps us make sure life with diabetes is the best it can be along the way to a cure. Want to know more on how you can help? Send us an email
