Maple Grove Teen Turns Pain into a Purpose

Maple Grove Senior High student Macey LeVahn was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes four years ago. She now volunteers for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation or JDRF through organizing auctions.

Macey’s diagnosis

Macey LeVahn is 16 years old and from Maple Grove. Doctors diagnosed her with Type 1 diabetes four years ago.

“It was really scary for it to happen right before seventh grade” remembers Macey. “Because middle school is the moment of vulnerability. It was just a really tough time to have this added into it.”

Type 1 diabetes is when the pancreas isn’t producing insulin for the body to regulate blood sugar. To survive, Macey needs to manually give herself insulin.

“Everyday involves multiple blood sugar tests,” said Macey. “I prick my finger and I use needles to give insulin. Now I have an insulin pump.”

Macey’s mom said the diagnosis came as a complete shock to the family.

“Yet, you have no choice but to own it and learn. There’s a lot of education,” said Christine LeVahn.

Becoming a Volunteer

Macey didn’t wait long after her diagnosis to become involved in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, or JDRF. She volunteers and helps collect donations for the silent auction.

“JDRF does a lot to support our family,” said Christine. “Initially, upon diagnosis, we were given backpacks that are used to educate families and comfort items, like a teddy bear for young kids to practice injections on.”

Christine says the family still wants to give back. This year, Macey will be doing her first in-person auction at Omni Brewery in Maple Grove on Friday, Feb. 21st from 7-9 PM. 

“I’m hoping this is something that helps people realize that its serious illness, but it shows how strong people are and that it’s manageable,” said Macey.

To learn more about the JDRF One Walk on February 22, click here.

Maple Grove