Greetings and well wishes during this special time of year!

So many great things are happening in the Western Wisconsin Chapter because of your interest, involvement and support.  Thank you for all you do to move us closer to a cure and improve the lives of those affected by type 1 diabetes (T1D).

We’ve seen many successes during the first six months of our fiscal year.  Our JDRF One Walk activity, an outstanding JDRF Ride to Cure effort, Gala planning in both La Crosse and Madison, and generous donor support making it possible for JDRF to fund life-changing research.  I encourage you to deepen your involvement with JDRF, and extend invitations to friends, family and business associates to partner on our important journey.

Concurrent with the timing of this newsletter, our Chapter Executive Director, Jennifer Wickman, has informed us of her plans to leave JDRF.  Those of you who know Jennifer and her family recognize the deep passion and dedication displayed by them since the diagnosis of their daughter, Stella.  We appreciate Jennifer’s contributions to JDRF’s mission, know she will continue to be part of our larger JDRF family, and look forward to seeing her and her family at future One Walks and Galas.

Chapter Board leadership is working with the JDRF regional team to support the Chapter’s fundraising, advocacy, and outreach initiatives during this transition.  We have the good fortune of having the talented Executive Director from the Northeast Wisconsin Chapter (Appleton) on-loan to work with the Chapter staff and Board during this time, as well.

Rest assured the Chapter is very strong, healthy, and prepared to do our mission-critical work of connecting with individuals and corporations to support our goal of turning Type 1 into Type None.  Please join our efforts by contributing directly to the Chapter, by volunteering for our many activities and events, and by asking those in your community to do the same.

Thank you again for your support and Happy Holidays!

—Mike Gotzler, JDRF Western Wisconsin Chapter Board President