Sanderlin’s 6th Annual Tortuga Trot taking action for JDRF

ST. PETERSBURG – Students and staff from Sanderlin Elementary took to the streets for the sixth annual one mile fun run/walk and 5K Tortuga Trot as a fundraiser to benefit Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

The Trot evolved six years ago as a way to promote family fun and fitness while taking action for JDRF!

“We anticipate after this year’s event we will have raised over $10,000 for JDRF, said Traci Pyhel, family and community liaison at Sanderlin Elementary. “Our committee is small but mighty. Six volunteer members meet on weekends and after school hours to plan and prepare for this fun family event. Taking action in our community is a big part of being an International Baccalaureate school.”

What is diabetes? Diabetes is a group of metabolic diseases where the body’s pancreas does not produce enough insulin or does not properly respond to insulin produced, resulting in high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period.

There are several different types of diabetes, but the most common forms are type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Both impact glucose levels, and if left untreated, can cause many complications.

Sanderlin Elementary’s students and staff have join JDRF to help find a cure. They depend on businesses, family, community sponsorships and donations to help offset the cost of t-shirts, student participation medals and other event expenses.

If you are interested in getting involved with James B. Sanderlin Elementary for this cause, please contact Family and Community Liaison Traci Pyhel, at (727) 552-1700.