Jose Gabriel's Story...

In 1984, José Gabriel, a six-month-old boy in Quito, Ecuador, went into a coma and was diagnosed with type 1 (juvenile) diabetes.  Despite the efforts of his parents, both of whom were physicians, José could not stay healthy. His parents spent most of the family's income on insulin, but to no avail. Eight years later José lapsed into another coma. With no other option, his family saved money and sent their son to the U.S. for treatment where they discovered that a lack of education is as dangerous as a lack of insulin.

AYUDA was founded in 1996 by two teenagers with a vision inspired by the plight of José Gabriel. Since then, AYUDA has grown significantly in capacity and reach to become an organization that is recognized as an international leader in the development and delivery of diabetes education, advocacy and youth empowerment. AYUDA’s successful growth is a product of the diligence and dedication of its volunteers. AYUDA's volunteers range from high school students to health care professionals. The majority of volunteers that participate in AYUDA's programs are students in college or graduate school.