The Mission
It started close to home.
A personal connection to Type 1 diabetes became an opportunity to support families throughout our community.
Brody's experience living with Type 1 diabetes has shown our family firsthand how much goes into managing the disease every day. This campaign takes that personal connection and turns it into something bigger.
What began as one family's experience has grown into a community effort to support others facing similar challenges. Through Essentia Health Foundation, Fueling Hope aims to strengthen pediatric diabetes care across the Northland and help more families receive the support they need close to home.
Brody's Story
Type 1 diabetes is only one part of his story.
Living with Type 1 diabetes means paying attention to something most people rarely have to think about. Blood sugar, insulin, food, and activity all become part of everyday life.
But diabetes doesn't define Brody. He stays active, plays basketball, and continues doing the things he enjoys.
His experience is the reason this campaign started close to home—and the reason we want to help support other children and families navigating Type 1 diabetes.
Beyond One Story
Supporting families far beyond our community.
Brody's story is personal, but many families across the Northland face similar challenges. Dr. Kannan Kasturi and his team at Essentia Health provide specialized diabetes care to children from across the region.
Regional Diabetes Care
~960Patient visits annually
Dr. Kasturi and his team provide specialized pediatric diabetes care across the Northland, with approximately 960 patient visits each year.
Care Across Four States
Families travel from Fargo, Detroit Lakes, Brainerd, Hinckley, Ashland, Bayfield, and Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
Care When It's Needed Most
Although appointments may be limited, the care team works to accommodate children with new diagnoses who need timely support.
Staying Connected From Home
Virtual appointments and locally coordinated lab work help established patients stay connected without traveling for every visit.