McGuire family

Oct. 18. By Dave Vieser. Cornelius residents Jennifer and Mike McGuire are co-chairs of this year’s 2016 Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation “Hope Gala” this Saturday at the Westin in Charlotte. The goal for this year’s event is to raise at least $1 million for type 1 diabetes research.

“I intend to work passionately to fight this disease, until there is a cure” Jennifer McGuire said. “Since my son’s diagnosis, my purpose has been to raise awareness, raise funds, and raise hope for those who suffer with type 1 and who administer their care.”  Parker McGuire, 12, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes several years ago.

The gala will raise funds for life-changing research, while also honoring Rita and Ken Church, parents of country music superstar Eric Church. The Church’s, who live in Hickory, will be honored for their longtime support of JDRF. While type 1 diabetes is often thought of as a childhood disease, more than 85 percent of those living with the disease are adults, including Rita. She was diagnosed at the age of 53 and is a volunteer with JDRF along with her husband Ken, who has served on the JDRF Chapter Board since 2013.

For tickets or more information regarding the 2016 JDRF Hope Gala, visit www.hopegalacharlotte.com.