Single mom Rollin’ to help families deal with diabetes

After a personal tragedy, a single mother is working to help families facing juvenile diabetes.

The Rollin’ For a Cause event in Blackfoot seeks to raise money to help out local families who have children struggling with Type 1 diabetes.

Event co-founder Susan Jensen knows firsthand the difficulties and danger the disease can bring.

“That’s a cause close to my heart. My oldest daughter was diagnosed when she was 7 and she passed away from it when she was 12,” Jensen said. “So it’s a real personal thing for me.”

With the $10,000 made last year at the first Rollin’ For a Cause, Jensen has been able to help six local families facing tough medical bills.

“I was single with four children and having to struggle to buy those supplies and groceries at the same time. And that’s a tough position to be in, for anybody.”

Bikers came out to support the event, even Mike Crapo brought his motorcycle.

“No, not the senator,” he joked.

Crapo came supporting his grandson, knowing the toll the disease can put on families.

“My son and daughter-in-law spend an exorbitant amount of money just to keep up with the cost,” he said.

Starting at Premier Technology in Blackfoot, the caravan of motorcycles drove throughout southeast Idaho to Lava Hot Springs and back.

Beyond the money raised for local families, Jensen said she thinks the show of support is the most important part.

“It’s hard to put into words,” she said. “Beyond a dollar sign, I think for the families, just to have someone who would do this. Somebody that would come up and say we can take care of that bill for you.”

Locals can donate to the effort for local families dealing with Type 1 diabetes by donating to the Rollin’ For a Cause account at Idaho Central Credit Union.