Dear Friends,

These past 30 days have brought us much devastation, anxiety and unrest throughout our region.  At the same time, they have brought out the best in so many people – acts of heroism, self-sacrifice and strangers helping strangers.  I couldn’t be more proud of JDRF and our T1D community, both of whom stepped up to assist those in the greatest need.  From acute diabetic needs immediately following the storm, to long term assistance at shelters throughout our region, the efforts were amazing and inspiring.

We now look forward.  For some, that means continuing in their personal recovery and for others its finding ways to help and give back.  For us at JDRF, we look ahead to our upcoming walks.    First, on October 28^th at NRG Park for the Houston One Walk, and then on November 11^th at Lone Star College Montgomery for the Woodlands One Walk, both presented by Lexicon Pharmaceuticals.  These two events will allow us all to come together and walk to end T1D.

This year’s walks are appropriately themed Super Heroes Unite, which speaks to all the super heroes, or first responders, throughout our community.  We will use this opportunity to recognize those “first responders” that assisted, not only during the storm, but do so on an everyday basis.  These are uniformed officers and firefighters, moms and dads, community partners, as well as friends and strangers that showed up when we needed them most.  I am sure you will find this year’s walk uplifting and filled with emotion as we unite as a T1D community.

I look forward to seeing you there.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t lift up the great work each of you have done as Advocacy Champions to keep the JDRF and Type 1 research message in front of our elected officials.  There have been many opportunities to share your voice over the past few months, and for the latest updates, please read this edition’s Advocacy update.

Lastly, we’ve had strong representation this year in our Ride to Cure Diabetes program, in which seven riders from our chapter took part in two different rides around the country over the past month.  This fun destination ride program is a great way to join in with thousands from around the nation to take part in a full weekend event and raise funds for T1D research.  Thanks to all those that rode and supported our riders this year, and to learn more about each event check out the update in this month’s newsletter.

Sincerely,

Rick Byrd
Executive Director