Those who knew Andy Olin were aware he was meticulous about detail. He worked as an editor, copy editor and writer. He knew the intricacies of language: not just how it worked according to pre-established rules, but also the ways in which it could be interpreted and misinterpreted. He immersed himself in the data of language and helped others navigate rules and parameters.

Whether it was family, friends or colleagues, those who knew and loved Andy were aware he treated his body as carefully as he did other people’s language. He lived with Type 1 Diabetes, a condition in which his pancreas stopped producing insulin. Andy made concessions: He wore an insulin pump and constantly checked his blood sugar levels. But he didn’t let it define who he was or how he lived: he traveled the world, he bicycled near and far, he attended concerts.

On his first date with his wife, Emily, he brought out his insulin pump and immediately explained his condition. He didn’t want her thinking he was constantly checking his phone.

Type 1 diabetes has no cure. But in honor of the way Andy lived his life – expansive and experiential – we are asking for contributions to the JDRF fund. Today, there’s no cure. But Andy didn’t believe in such absolutes. He wouldn’t have lived his life as fully as he did if so. Please consider a donation in his name in hopes that others can do the things he loved to do without the daily burden this disease causes.