BREAKING BARRIERS: 50 YEARS OF PROGRESS

JDRF is the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. Our focus is on finding cures; until we do, the advancements we’re making every day will ease the burden of those living with the disease.

On Saturday, April 24, 2021, JDRF Dallas and Fort Worth will come together to host the annual JDRF Gala to commemorate 50 years of breaking barriers for type 1 diabetes! Under the leadership of Gala Chairs, Rob Hamilton of Med-Trans Corporation, and Treg Manning of Airbus Helicopters North America, the 2021 Gala will honor type 1 diabetes champion, Fred Buttrell.

Fred’s story began when he returned from his second tour in the Persian Gulf serving as a flight instructor for the F-15E Strike Eagle in 1993. After exhibiting symptoms of extreme thirst, urination and weight loss, he visited the squadron flight doctor for tests. While in the middle of an engagement with the Navy over Yuma, AZ flight range, the announcement came over dispatch, “Eagle flight return to base and get Buttrell on the ground.” Fred was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. That was his last flight. Despite the setback, Fred built a successful career in the aviation industry and has made JDRF a philanthropic focus for the last 25 years.

Join the Dallas JDRF Gala here and the Fort Worth JDRF Gala here!