In This Edition

1. JDRF Research Update
2. Ron Santo Walk to Cure Diabetes
3. Chance of a Lifetime Gala
4. Team JDRF Endurance Challenge
5. Walgreens Flu Shot Campaign

Research In Your Backyard

JDRF research programs are working globally in countries like Israel, Denmark, and London. However, here in Illinois, we have to look no farther than the Northwestern Campus in Evanston to see our investment dollars at work. JDRF funded researcher, Dr. Stephen Miller, is looking at T1D under the microscope to understand why our bodies create autoimmune attacks. He’s determining how to induce immune tolerance and how the research behind T1D may lead to helping others living with an autoimmune disease. Meet Dr. Stephen Miller.

One Meaningful Goal: A Cure

Everyone has a reason to walk. Here’s why Julie, a mom, wife, and new Walk participant, fundraises to find a cure: “While I am only one year into my T1D diagnosis, the Walk has been a way for me to connect with others who ‘get’ the daily challenges I face. Initially, I was unsure of what we could accomplish in our first year, but I have been immensely inspired by the generosity of family, friends, and even strangers. Amidst the fundraising hype, I remind my team that this is all for one very meaningful goal – a cure. As JDRF breakthroughs continue, how amazing to know that we all played a part in making them happen!” Julie and her team Strike Out Diabetes have already raised almost $5,000 for the Walk.  It’s never too late to join us in this critical effort; register or fundraise here. You can also share why you Walk on our Facebook page.

Passion with a Purpose

Passion, dedication, and purpose are all part of the formula for a flawless Chance of a Lifetime Gala. Trish Phebus of Williams Gerard Productions, the in-kind Gala production sponsor, is proof that big things happen when these characteristics meet. “W/G became involved with the Gala 22 years ago when my father, a parent of a child with type 1 diabetes, saw an opportunity to bring his professional abilities and personal passions together. For the past 10 years, I have taken the lead in producing the gala and it is something I take pride in every year. As someone living with type 1, I am always amazed by the incredible generosity and dedication people have for finding a cure — this includes my husband Josh who is a Gala Committee fundraiser. We are proud to be affiliated with the Gala and this outstanding committee.” Turn your passion into purpose for JDRF by joining the Gala committee or recruiting a friend here.

Commute for a Cure

Running home from work is one way Board Member Tom Seftenberg has turned a passion into supporting JDRF. Through his annual Commute for a Cure fundraiser, he ran 19 miles (fighting 20 mile per hour winds!) from his downtown office to his home in Glencoe; raising nearly $30,000 for his efforts.  As Tom explains, “This event requires very little logistical planning and zero administrative costs, allowing 100% of every dollar raised goes to JDRF. It’s also a ‘green’ event that offers participants a physical challenge equal to the distance of their commute home.”  Click here to learn more about his effort or to register your own Team JDRF event.

Stay Healthy This Flu Season

Walgreens has made it easier for the JDRF family to stay healthy this flu season and at the same time, support T1D research.  Stop by your local Walgreens to get your flu shot now through October 31st, and for each flu shot administered, Walgreens will donate $1 (up to $100,000) to JDRF. Make sure to print out and bring our promotional flyer. Be sure to share this information with your friends and family.