November 18, 2025 — At Lindley Middle School, staff and fellow students are going the extra mile to make sure that one of their sixth graders feels supported. 

November marks National Diabetes Awareness Month, and at Lindley, they're using it as an opportunity to showcase their tight-knit community. 

Sixth grader Mason Kirk was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes three years ago and works hand-in-hand with school nurse Tamuriel Sanford.

"When to take insulin, when not to take insulin, what things to avoid that he's not supposed to be eating—he's open to the management strategies that we have on a day-to-day basis," said Sanford.

Mason said he hopes people will take the time this month to educate themselves on the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

"Diabetes isn't from eating too much sugar; it can be passed down from a family member," said Mason.

Despite having to check in with the nurse and pay closer attention to his health than most of his classmates, Mason has been a consistent honor roll student since his diagnosis. 

"As a parent of a diabetic you always feel like you're in this battle by yourself, so seeing the community come together and do something for my son was awesome," said Mason's dad, Eric. 

Students and teachers at Lindley helped create a large sign featuring pictures and messages that show support for Mason and others with diabetes. 

"It's always important to make sure everyone's aware of what our students and staff may have to do on a daily basis," said Lindley's Assistant Principal Bethany Harrison. 

Mason also helped put together an educational poster that's proudly displayed in the hallway to help his classmates and staff learn more about diabetes.

"It's nice to know that during the school day when he's not around Mom and Dad, that he's got an entire support system there at school," said Mason's mom, Michelle.

The Kirk family, alongside Lindley Middle School, helped raise $5,000 to go toward Georgia's Breakthrough T1D organization.