Just think about this:

1. JDRF has funded out-patient trials–we’re talking real people in real-life settings–who are having their T1D managed “beautifully” without them doing a thing. Because its continuous glucose monitor whispers directly into the ear of its insulin pump, the artificial pancreas let the patients in the trials forget all about carb counting, blood glucose readings and nasty injections.  Not only that, but the AP kept individuals in a range that helps ensure their continued good health.  People, the AP is very much on its way.
2. JDRF was a key player in making Lucentis–a medication that can stave off and even reverse eye disease–available to people with T1D.  One of the most worrisome complications of this disease just got a lot less scary.
3. JDRF announced success in real people–again, we aren’t talking mice–with the transplantation of encapsulated islet cells.  These cells produce insulin and because of very smart advancements in encapsulation, each little cell is protected from the immune attack, all without the person having to take harmful immunosuppressant drugs. In a complex and unsure world where few people are wanting to talk dates, Living Cell Technologies says, “With each trial analysis we grow increasingly confident that DIABECELL will bring many benefits to patients with unstable type 1 diabetes, and we remain intently focused on reaching the market by 2016.”

Now, If you’re reading this, chances are that you support JDRF.

Which means you had a hand in every one of these advancements.

That should make you feel good.

Better, even, than having the prize recipe at the holiday cookie swap or stringing more lights than anyone in your neighborhood.

Better even, than discovering that you own the very ugliest of all the ugly Christmas sweaters.