by Moya Tobey 

Spend a night in Brazil at Carnivale for the Cure with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). Proceeds from the festive event go toward finding a cure for Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), an autoimmune disease that suddenly appears in adults and children. After hosting the fundraiser for 21 years, the foundation is hoping to yet again have record-breaking donations; last year, the event raised a record amount of $385,000 for the cure. 

T1D is a disease in which the affected person’s pancreas is unable to produce insulin, which is a hormone necessary for the body to gain energy from food. Those diagnosed must constantly monitor their blood sugar level and inject themselves with insulin according to when they eat and their activity level for the day. On top of all this, people with T1D are at risk for devastating long-term health complications such as heart attack, kidney failure, stroke, blindness and amputation.

Carnivale for the Cure includes a three-course dinner, a cocktail reception, appetizers and an open bar. The entertainment for the night features samba dancing and music with Brazilian decor and acts that will make you forget you’re in West Michigan. Admission is $200 per person and businesses can purchase a table or sponsor the Gala if they wish. Attire is black-tie optional but feathers, glitter and sparkles are encouraged. The fundraiser will be held from 6 p.m.-11 p.m. on Friday, April 26 at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. For ticket information, visit jdrf.org/greatlakeswest/events/21st-annual-promise-gala

What:  Carnivale for the Cure with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation

When: Friday, April 26, 6 p.m.-11 p.m.

Where: Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, 187 Monroe Ave NW

Cost: Tickets start at $200 

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Moya Tobey is a college student studying publishing at Cornerstone University. She dreams of traveling the world, fighting for victims of injustice and penning everything she sees.