#WeAreNotWaiting is a mantra that transforms every day into a Diabetes Day for individuals and families facing this disease. It took me over 2 years to finally participate in the INNODIA study alongside my younger son.

INNODIA I knew before was a program aiming to identify type 1 diabetes (T1D) in the early stages among family members of individuals with T1D from the first line, who are not yet aware that this diagnosis will clinically manifest in them.

“It didn’t cost me much, just (among other things) moving to a completely different country in Europe… 🤪

As I’ve always dreamed of being part of this study, contributing our family’s drop of blood to relevant global research, even in the absence of a cure or slowing the progression of the disease – of which I was fully aware – I also wished that no one from Slovakia would receive a rejection just because they don’t live in the ‘right country.’

The vision of INNODIA today is to achieve a world without type 1 diabetes. That’s why today is an exceptional day for me. Another milestone, a significant step forward, especially because it concerns my homeland…

I’ve read this message about five times today and checked the Zoom screenshot… just to be sure that this is not a dream but a fulfilled sense of recognition for tireless advocacy over the past year across countries…

“Dear Miroslava, thank you for your time today. I really enjoyed our conversation. We are ready to get the Slovak Republic into the INNODIA network and bring your country up to speed in the field of disease-modifying therapies for T1D!”

So that our country is not again a gray spot on the map…

So, Slovakia, we are ready! And I am thrilled to be the very first future member of INPACT, Lead in Slovakia. Completely proud of myself, and grateful for the friendly conversation spent with a personality of global significance like Manuela Battaglia, I know that my desire for families from Slovakia to be equal partners in the world of research and potential future treatment of type 1 diabetes is not isolated.

Tune in, Slovakia, WE WANT YOU! This won’t be just about me; we will need all of you, and we have to go through a bit more of the journey, how long it will be depends on you. My child is already in a country where the opportunity to be on the frontline will be available. Fight with me for yours! Type 1 diabetes can truly touch any of you…

And you know what is the absolute best part? Meeting in the world, on a new, yet unknown path with familiar faces. With friends for life. Those who have a shared piece of the journey inscribed in their blood with you… That was the moment for me today when I nervously waited to connect with Manuela Battaglia… and the first face I saw was the familiar face of Ana. The nervousness was instantly gone, and I knew I was home.

Therefore, the #dedoc international community for and by people with diabetes has a unique significance and position in the world of advocacy. THANK YOU #DEDOC 🙏”