8:56 a.m., Dec. 2, 2010----Jonathan Michael (Mike) Chadwick, a University of Delaware alumnus and representative of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), completed the Philadelphia Marathon on Sunday, Nov. 1, during Diabetes Awareness Month.

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Chadwick, who finished in 4 hours, 15 minutes and 42 seconds, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of six. He became a representative of JDRF by involving himself with the organization's South Jersey Chapter.

He helps to promote the organization's mission of finding a cure for Type 1 diabetes and improving the lives of those living with diabetes by helping to fund diabetes research.

Through JDRF, Chadwick educates others about living with Type 1 diabetes as a mentor to children and families affected by it. One way he accomplishes this is through camps held by JDRF for children living with Type 1 diabetes.

“These camps allow kids to see someone who got through the challenge and show that it is possible,” says Chadwick.

Along with running in marathons, Chadwick also exemplifies this message though his healthy lifestyle and excellence in managing his blood sugar levels, which requires “knowing your body” and preparing for what actions you need to take.

“Your body reacts to how long you've run. If I know I'm going to run 10 miles, I have to have food [with] me,” Chadwick says.

For many families, having a child diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes can be scary; however, Chadwick knows from 28 years of personal experience that “living with diabetes can be easier than people think. ”

Although there can be difficulties, Chadwick stresses that “there is no challenge that can't be overcome.”

Chadwick, a 1999 graduate who majored in communication, currently lives in Swedesboro, N.J., with his wife and fellow UD alum, Breigh Hickman Chadwick, a 1999 graduate who majored in anthropology, and their two children.

While at UD, he competed on the track and field teams, twice serving as captain, although not in the event one might suspect. “The fact that as a retired collegiate hammer and discus thrower I can get back into shape and run a marathon, with 28 years of diabetes under my belt, is a testament to the fact that it is possible for Type 1 diabetics to have a successful and active life,” he says.

To learn more about JDRF, visit the website.

Article by Kristin Zinsmeister