American Diabetes Association Youth Ambassador Grace Kendzierski to ‘Ride with Ryan’

By:
On:
In: Xfinity Series News

American Diabetes Association® Youth Ambassador Grace Kendzierski will ‘ride’ along with Roush Fenway Racing driver Ryan Reed during Saturday’s NASCAR XFINITY Series race at Texas Motor Speedway. The Carrollton, Texas native will have her name featured on a decal above the passenger-side window on the No. 16 Lilly Diabetes American Diabetes Ford Mustang.

Kendzierski was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2009 at just 16 months old. Now seven years old, Kendzierski knows the importance of staying active to manage her diabetes. She is a triathlete who loves riding her bike, playing basketball and baseball, and taking hip-hop dance lessons.

Four years ago, Kendzierski and her family began participating in the American Diabetes Association’s Tour de Cure® cycling event to show support for people who are living with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

“I’m excited that Grace can help kick off our special American Diabetes Month paint scheme at Texas by riding along on the No. 16 Lilly Diabetes American Diabetes Association Ford Mustang,” said Reed. “Her story of being diagnosed at such a young age and representing the community so well with her involvement in sports and with the American Diabetes Association makes her a great role model. I know she will continue to make the diabetes community proud as we work together to find a cure for diabetes.” 

Ryan Reed and the ‘Riding with Ryan’ program roll into Texas Motor Speedway for the second time this season. In April, Reed finished 15th at Texas after starting 14th. 

To recognize everyone that lives with diabetes in the state of Texas, Reed will run a special paint scheme this weekend featuring a multitude of stars to represent the prevalence of diabetes in the state. Reed’s No. 16 Lilly Diabetes American Diabetes Association Ford Mustang will also feature an American Diabetes Month® decal. American Diabetes Month is part of an effort by the American Diabetes Association to spread awareness of the disease, featuring programs designed to focus the nation’s attention on the issues surrounding diabetes and the many people who are impacted by the disease.  

RFR PR

Speedway Digest Staff
Follow Me
Latest posts by Speedway Digest Staff (see all)
Post Views: 39