Madison

At 16 months old, Madison is a hero. She probably doesn't realize it now but someday her role in a diabetes research study could help find a cure for a disease that affects more than 20 million people in the United States, including her dad.

Three years before Madison was born her father was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. His doctor recommended that Madison join a study conducted by researchers at the University of Florida College of Medicine designed to help determine the cause of diabetes. Because Madison's father, grandfather and uncle all had diabetes her parents decided to enter her in the study when she was born.

Tests have determined Madison carries a gene that may lead to diabetes. If she is found to have diabetes, an early diagnosis would allow Madison's disease to be managed more effectively.

The results of Madison's participation could also help others dealing with diabetes in the future and, hopefully, help researchers find a cure.