Hello friends n family n also enemies! We are raising money for research at UPenn to treat and cure congenital hyperinsulinism (HI), the rare disease Leo was diagnosed with as an infant. Not so fun fact: HI is the reason Leo has diabetes today. HI is a life-threatening disorder that causes dangerously low blood sugar levels; many babies with HI suffer from severe complications, in addition to diabetes, including neurological and developmental challenges as a result of prolonged hypoglycemia (low blood sugars), and many do not survive. 

Leo was lucky (read: privileged) enough to have access to the best medical care and so we're strapping on our helmets and biking in a circle around Philly so future Leos can have the same level of care and can bike in circles around future Phillys. 

One of the most important research goals is to develop tools for early detection and treatment, which can have a hugely positive impact on prognosis. Unfortunately, detection is often delayed because HI is so rare. This was true when Leo was diagnosed 30 years ago (he's soOO OLD, very old), and it remains true today, in part because it's so challenging to secure research dollars for a rare disease. Your $$$ will be used for pre-clinical or clinical studies designed to improve the diagnosis, therapy, or quality of life for those affected by congenital hyperinsulinism. The first $30,000 we raise is matched by the University of Pennsylvania, our partner in funding research. 

Thanks to all of you, Congenital Hyperinsulinism International has raised over $381,000 for live-improving and life-saving research! JOIN US IN RAISING MORE! Thank you!