Chris Schultz was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in 1969 during a time when people with T1D were not expected to live beyond their late 30s. Having witnessed other members of his family suffer serious diabetic complications, Chris vowed at a young age to do everything in his power to stay healthy and live a normal life.

Since then, Chris has experienced T1D technology go from mere guesswork to an exact and continuously advancing science. Forty-five years since his diagnosis he’s now a successful lawyer in New York City, proud father of two daughters, board member for JDRF’s NYC Chapter, and living complication-free.

Chris says he owes part of his physical health to a life-changing clinical trial funded by JDRF, which he underwent in 2005. As part of the trial, Chris received an islet cell transplant, which placed insulin-producing cells back into his body. The result was that Chris was temporarily cured of diabetes for over a year.

“It was exhilarating to have a vacation from diabetes,” says Chris, who found himself insulin independent for the first time in his life.

Unfortunately, the results were not permanent, and Chris also had to endure heavy immuno-suppressant therapy to block the same autoimmune attack on the islet cells that initially caused his T1D. Luckily, JDRF is working hard to improve the process of islet cell transplantation by investing in encapsulation research.

Encapsulation involves placing islet cells in a pouch or protective barrier that would shield the cells from the immune system, allow them to assess the amount of glucose in the blood, and release exactly the right amount of insulin. Once a suitable material for the pouch is identified, no immuno-suppressive drugs will be required.

Through our encapsulation research, JDRF is creating a way to give Chris and millions of others a permanent vacation from T1D.

 Get Educated. 

A diagnosis of T1D at any age—whether for you or a family member—can feel scary, overwhelming, and confusing. Luckily, JDRF is here to help you navigate life after diagnosis. Through our many community outreach programs we can help you transition from overwhelmed and confused to educated, engaged, and ultimately, empowered.