JDRF Friends and Families:

We hope this letter finds you and your family safe and healthy.  As all our thoughts are on the ever-evolving COVID-19 pandemic, the JDRF Houston Gulf Coast Chapter continues to prioritize the safety and health of our community.  Therefore, as you may have already seen, following local and federal guidelines and in partnership with our local and national volunteer leadership, JDRF has made the difficult decision to suspend all in-person events through June 30^th.

This decision directly effects our upcoming Promise Ball slated for May 2^nd.  While we may not be able to come together in a ballroom to unite in person, we are in the process of planning a fun, uplifting and inspirational “virtual event” and campaign.  Staff and volunteers have been working on plans for a dynamic, multi-facetted experience that will incorporate traditional gala activities such as auction, Fund A Cure, and inspiring testimonials.  Over the next few weeks, please be on the lookout for updates regarding event specifics and how you can participate.

While we are sensitive to the affects this global pandemic is having on our community and nation, we are also relentless in our efforts to treat, prevent and cure T1D.  We are in a critical moment in type one research and energized by the progress being made in several areas, including immune therapies, beta cell research and technological advancements.  For this reason, we hope you will make plans to join us both virtually on May 2^nd and throughout the campaign.  We need you now more than ever!

With appreciation for your continued partnership and deepest empathy during these extremely challenging and unprecedented circumstances,

JDRF HOUSTON GULF COAST CHAPTER