In the wake of the widespread devastation to our friends and neighbors at the hands of Hurricane Florence, we reach out to say thank you. Thank you for your courage. Thank you for your perseverance. Thank you for showing our country the unbelievable love and support we have in times of need. Thank you for exemplifying all that makes our community great, and all that we stand by and stand for here at JDRF.

And to the first responders who put their lives on the line to rescue and secure those in danger, we also extend our heartfelt thanks. This includes the T1D parents in our community, who every day are the first responders to their families, as well as our community of supporters who have stepped up in incredible ways to make sure as many of those affected by this terrible disease as possible were cared for, and continue to be cared for, during this trying time.

We know our community has been hit in unimaginable ways, but we must persevere. The JDRF mission still stands before us. We must continue to pursue our goal of a world without T1D. That’s why we are proud to say that our Wilmington One Walk will still be held on October 28th. However, we are extremely sympathetic to those directly impacted by the storm in any way, which is why we have modified it in a few significant ways:

• We have eliminated the actual walk portion but have added increased access to valuable resources such as vendors, endocrinologists, nutritionists, and clinical trial information.
• It will be a drop-in event; stop by any time between 3:30 – 5:30 pm 
• Regardless of your ability to fundraise, we invite you to register and join us.

We encourage you to share the efforts JDRF has had during these terrible times – there is much to be proud of. Let us know how we can continue to support you as we rebuild, and appreciate you standing by us as we continue the fight to turn Type One into Type None.

JDRF One Walk Community Rally

October 28, 2018
3:30 – 5:30 pm
Wrightsville Beach Park

Why is JDRF Coastal Carolina Chapter still holding the One Walk?

It was a tough decision to hold the event this year given the impact Hurricane Florence has had not only on the residents of North Carolina as a whole, but also specifically on the many local JDRF families and JDRF staff who were severely impacted. However, based on feedback from our T1D community, the annual One Walk is important for our children and families who courageously face Type 1 Diabetes every day and look forward each year to joining with others to demonstrate their fight against the disease. We also want this event to rally our chapter’s nine counties together as we rebuild following the storm.

Are you still accepting One Walk donations?

JDRF fully realizes that many families will not be able to participate in the fundraising activities associated with One Walk, and that overall fundraising will be affected, given the needs in our community.

However, we remain committed to being Carolina Strong, finding a cure for Type 1 Diabetes, and “showing up” to support our T1D community. Individuals and organizations who are willing and able to fundraise for the walk may continue to do so online or bring the money in person the day of the One Walk Community Rally.

If you would like to make a donation to support JDRF’s mission, please click here.

How has the One Walk been modified?

First, we changed the name to the One Walk Community Rally because we know that the Cape Fear region deserves an opportunity to gather together, reconnect and recharge.

Regardless of your ability to fundraise, we invite you to come out on October 28th to engage with other families, enable the children to enjoy a free fun kids’ area and costume contest, listen to music, grab a hot dog, and obtain important T1D information and resources.

The walk itself is going to be an optional floating opportunity; feel free to walk the Wrightsville Beach Loop at your discretion and leisure.

Why do I still need to register for the JDRF One Walk community Rally?

Registering is the only way we know how many people to expect for food, beverages and activities. Please register here.

How is JDRF Coastal Carolina Chapter helping with local disaster relief efforts?

Despite the JDRF Coastal Carolina Chapter’s office being damaged as well as two staff members’ homes, the staff has been working with the Disaster Diabetes Recovery Coalition to determine needs in the area and has been helping neighbors in their recovery efforts.

In addition, we would like to assist even more individuals in the weeks and months to come. Our heart is to especially serve the local T1D community so if you are aware of particular T1D family needs related to the hurricane, please notify us. In addition, we will have collection bins at the JDRF One Walk Community Rally for you to bring extra diabetic supplies (no insulin or sharps, please) and/or disaster relief supplies. A full list of desired supplies will be provided on our website www.jdrf.org/coastalcarolina

Additional questions and family support needs may be directed to coastalcarolina@jdrf.org or call 910-509-9899

We look forward to seeing you at the JDRF One Walk Community Rally!

Sincerely,

Ronda Ross
JDRF Coastal Carolina Chapter
Board President

Erin Mabry, Lindsey Brown and Dalene Bickel
JDRF Coastal Carolina Chapter staff