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Scientists will take blood samples each year from the boys.

A multinational study is being launched locally at the Benaroya Research Institute. The goal of the study is to identify people who are at risk of developing Type one diabetes, and see if we can prevent them, or delay the onset of their disease. 

Researchers want to know if a daily dose of oral insulin can offer protection.

In a small, preliminary study the therapy proved safe, and in some people, it delayed the onset of symptoms by over four years.

If it works for kids in this large trial, it could be revolutionary.

Kids with Type one diabetes live with multiple daily insulin injections to manage their disease.

"Type one diabetes requires every day, constant vigilance of that child. The child can't go on sleepovers, can't go to camp, can't even get to school without being sure that there's someone there that can take care of your child," said Dr. Carla Greenbaum

Gabrielle Evans Lombe knows her sons are at higher risk because of family history. She has lived with diabetes since she was eight.

Scientists will take blood samples each year from the boys. If they find markers that signal diabetes is likely to develop, that boy will start on either insulin or a placebo as part of the study.

The oldest, Alexander, says it's worth it, to battle a disease that has no cure.

"If we can prevent it a lot of people will have better lives," he said.

This family is committed to helping researchers until the youngest is grown.

Type one diabetes is on the rise. The biggest increase is in children under five.

You can join the government-funded study on oral insulin at sites all across the country and internationally. For information call 1-800-888-4187.