For the 10th time this season, Roush Fenway Racing’s Ryan Reed has a special guest riding along with him during Saturday’s NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS) race at Texas Motor Speedway. The No. 16 American Diabetes Association Drive to Stop DiabetesSMpresented by Lilly Diabetes Ford Mustang will carry the name of Ryleigh Ashfordabove the passenger side window.
Ashford was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes on April 8, 2013 at the age of eight. The now 10-year-old has kept a positive attitude and refuses to let diabetes derail any of her goals.
“With the help of my family, friends and coaches, I have not let diabetes slow me down,” says Ashford. “I still lead a very active, normal life doing all the things I love to do, such as playing softball, basketball, swimming, going to camp and much more. Being a normal, active kid is a little bit harder for me because of the diabetes, but it is not impossible and I am not letting diabetes keep my from being myself and doing the things I love to do.”
The ‘Riding with Ryan’ program rolls into its 10th weekend at Texas Motor Speedway. The name of an American Diabetes Association Youth Ambassador will be featured on the No. 16 Ford Mustang at 11 races this season.
“I am so inspired by how determined Ryleigh is to not let diabetes change the way she wants to live her life,” said Reed. “She is such a great example to people living with diabetes. Every week, I am fortunate enough to continue to pursue my dreams. To see people like Ryleigh, who have not let diabetes stop them from doing the same, is such a reward. It’s yet another reason I’m so proud to work with the American Diabetes Association and Lilly Diabetes.”
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