DUBOIS: A DuBois family is working to spread awareness about Type 1 diabetes while raising money to provide added safety and independence for their 8-year-old daughter, Lila.

Kayla and Nate Nasuti say Lila, a student in the DuBois Area School District, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) at just 1 year old. Since then, managing the autoimmune condition has required constant attention and care.

Lila’s Diagnosis

In the days before her diagnosis, Kayla said the family sought medical advice several times after noticing troubling symptoms, including fatigue, excessive thirst, frequent urination, appetite loss and a strange odor on Lila’s breath.

“We were told more than once it was probably a virus or the flu,” Kayla recalled.

On April 6, 2019, trusting her instincts, Kayla called 911 when Lila went into what she described as severe respiratory distress. Lila was transported by ambulance and later airlifted to Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh, where she remained for 10 days — several of them in the intensive care unit — after being diagnosed with severe diabetic ketoacidosis.

The Nasutis now share their daughter’s story to help educate others about T1D. Unlike Type 2 diabetes, T1D is an autoimmune disorder unrelated to diet or lifestyle and requires constant monitoring and management.

“Most people don’t see the daily work that goes into it,” Kayla said. “But it’s a huge physical and emotional responsibility for a child.”

She added that greater awareness can lead to safer environments for children living with the condition. In many cases, she noted, a simple finger-stick blood sugar test can detect the illness early and potentially prevent life-threatening complications.

Seeking A Medical Alert Dog

The family is now fundraising to obtain a diabetic alert dog, which they believe will offer Lila an added layer of protection and independence.

Kayla explained that blood sugar levels can fluctuate due to numerous factors, making everyday activities — such as attending school, reading, gymnastics and spending time with friends — more challenging. Warning signs like shakiness, dizziness, thirst and headaches can escalate quickly if not treated.

A trained diabetic alert dog can detect changes in blood sugar through scent, often alerting up to 30 minutes before a continuous glucose monitor sounds an alarm or symptoms appear.

“That early warning can make a significant difference,” Kayla said. “It can lessen the severity of highs and lows, provide overnight alerts and bring peace of mind.”

These dogs can also be trained to retrieve glucose supplies when needed.

The Nasutis have applied to Tattle Tale Scent Dogs in Salt Lake City, Utah. The program allows families to raise and train a puppy alongside their child, with expert-guided virtual training during the first year. Kayla said the approach helps build a strong bond between the child and dog while keeping costs lower than programs that place fully trained adult dogs.

After being accepted, Lila has been placed on a waiting list for a puppy this year.

Fundraising Efforts

The total cost associated with obtaining and training a medical alert dog — including the puppy, training expenses and travel — is estimated at nearly $10,000. The family has raised roughly one-tenth of that goal so far.

Despite the financial hurdle, Kayla said the family has been deeply encouraged by the support they’ve already received.

A candy bar fundraiser titled “Sweet Treats for a Sweet Kid” is scheduled from 4:PM to 6:PM Friday, February 13^th, and from 10:30 AM to 2:PM Saturday, February 14^th, at the Treasure Lake Post Office. Proceeds will go directly toward funding Lila’s medical alert dog.

Those unable to attend can contribute through Venmo at @AlertDogFund. The family also welcomes help spreading the word or offering additional fundraising ideas.