Connor Broyles

Connor Mixes it up 

Connor Broyles has sold lemonade every summer for the past three years.  The summer after was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, Connor realized his lemonade could do more than quench thirst. 

“When I first figured out there could be a cure. I wanted to donate money to help,” said Connor. 

Connor and his mom, Leslie set up the lemonade stand in their front yard, and Connor made a sign that said, “Help Kids with Diabetes.” The first year they made $80.00.

After their success, Leslie’s sister had the idea of approaching local businesses to solicit their help. According to Leslie, “The response was amazing, and from there it just grew.”

They now hold a raffle every year, aptly named “Quench for the Cure.” To date, Connor’s lemonade has raised $14,000.

In recognition of Connor’s passion and commitment to finding a cure for diabetes, the mayor of his hometown declared the month of November as Diabetes Awareness month and November 1, 2007 as Connor Broyles Day.

When asked how it felt to be recognized, Connor said, “It felt really cool. The other kids were saying, ‘Good job, Connor, and complimenting me.’”  Connor also recalled his mom tearing up a little bit which, Connor said, was a little embarrassing.

Leslie remembers the morning they made the announcement at school. Everyone wore stickers with Connor’s name on them and the principal gave a speech. Then Connor gave an impromptu speech of his own, thanking everyone. “It was just a very special time,” said Leslie.

When asked why Connor was inspired to help others, Leslie said, “He lives with it daily — and knows about others who do too.”

Leslie mentioned the generous support Amy Stephan, Associate Manager at the American Diabetes Association has given since the beginning of Connor’s diagnosis.

“She is so supportive and helpful in every way. She’s just been instrumental in getting Connor’s name out there and that’s what it’s all about,” Leslie said.

But Amy gives credit where she believes credit is due, “Connor is one of those remarkable people you meet in your life. Not a remarkable child, just a remarkable person. The amount of time and effort he puts into finding a cure never ceases to amaze me. Watching him manage his diabetes and the manner in which he approaches his diabetes renews my excitement and energy for finding a cure.”

And what could be better than that?

Connor’s Lemonade is a mixture of sugar free or regular Country Time Lemonade Mix and bottled water.