To Our Amazing JDRF Community,

The community, the country and the world look a bit different today than it ever has before. In our lifetime we have not had to face a global pandemic of this scale but we are no strangers to adversity and challenge. As we all have a unique T1D story, we know what it means to face something extraordinary and we will all get through this together. Please know that your JDRF family is here to support you.

JDRF has worked aggressively from the early days of COVID-19 to support the T1D community by being a reliable source for updated and accurate information, stay-healthy tips and engagement materials. Our page Coronavirus and T1D: What You Need To Know has been cited as a top resource by many organizations, medical experts and the media. You’ll find critical information including COVID-19 symptoms and data, how to manage T1D during any viral illness, supplies to stock, food to keep on hand, links to key resources and expert interviews and insurance and insulin cost support. Please also visit the JDRF Facebook page as we host two Facebook LIVE events a week with a range of experts to address top concerns including medical experts, stress-relief tips, exercise, and cooking.

In early March, JDRF made the necessary decision to re-imagine all of our iconic walks, galas and other events that take place all over the country.  This means either creating virtual experiences or postponing events.  While in some respects this was a difficult decision, as these events have become community cornerstones and our fundraising lifeblood it was the only decision; our first priority is the health and well-being of our T1D community and the broader community at large.

At the JDRF Capital Chapter, we have made the following important decisions:

• The JDRF One Walks in Northern Virginia and DC, will come together as one VIRTUAL One Walk on Sunday, May 31st
• The JDRF Real Estate Games has been postponed and will now take place on Thursday, September 10th
• The Capital Chapter Annual Meeting will take place VIRTUALLY on a date in June to be announced soon

Additionally, the Capital Chapter will be facilitating virtual T1D connections in our community through a new T1D Virtual Connections program. We hope you find opportunities to connect and learn from others in our local community on an upcoming virtual meet up!

Please know our first priority has always been and will continue to be the health and well-being of our community and their families. We know that with the support of our dedicated volunteers and supporters we will emerge from this pandemic stronger and more committed than ever to advancing our mission. JDRF plans to play a leadership role in helping shape what tomorrow looks like for us all.

Stay safe and well,

Jaclyn Toll Basse
Executive Director
JDRF Capital Chapter