Get involved in clinical research and change the future of T1D

We know you share JDRF’s commitment to discovering breakthrough therapies for type 1 diabetes (T1D). You Walk. You Ride. You advocate. You inspire. You contribute in so many ways to creating a world without T1D. Did you know you can even participate in the research that brings new therapies to life? It’s true: you can help unlock the science that will change the lives of millions of people with T1D. Like these kids.

Meet Jadah Schuh. She volunteered for a TrialNet study after finding out she’s at high risk for developing T1D. The study is looking at a possible way to slow down or stop progression of T1D. Jadah’s mother Susie explains, “Technology and research has come so far, all we need right now is participants. If we get participants, we’ll get a prevention and a cure.”

Jenna, Dylan, Justin and Summer tested an experimental artificial pancreas system made by Insulet. “Insulet is inspired each and every day to create extraordinary innovation for people with diabetes,” said Dr. Trang Ly, VP and Medical Director, Insulet Corporation. “Through clinical trials testing, we work to deliver technology that will transform managing diabetes as we know it and change the lives of people with diabetes.”

Jennifer Sherr, M.D., Ph.D., not only ran the trial but lives with T1D and has volunteered for various trials herself. “There’s a reason I do all this research and participate in all these studies. It’s because I have a direct benefit. I get to learn about new technologies or find out more about myself and my disease state, which is going to help me in the long term.” But that’s not all there is to it. “Trial participants are pioneers in many ways. And they are selfless, because they’re not just doing it for themselves. Even the young kids recognize it’s for the greater good.”

That’s because clinical studies are absolutely necessary to the development of new T1D therapies. Aaron J. Kowalski, Ph.D., JDRF Chief Mission Officer, explains, “Clinical trials are critical in moving the research forward and ultimately delivering better treatments and a cure one day. I’ve participated in a number of trials and there are so many benefits. You get to work with amazing clinical teams. You get to contribute to the science. You get to learn about what’s on the front line of new diabetes therapies. I really encourage people with T1D to look into clinical trials.”

Do you want to learn more? Find out about opportunities to get involved by visiting Clinical Trials Connection, JDRF’s trial matching tool powered by Antidote.