Joseph Piper became invested in JDRF’s mission after watching his late brother Perry struggle with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and multiple sclerosis. “The combination was brutal.  He did not have access to modern therapies nor good endocrinology care in his hometown, and he received most of his care in the ER. JDRF provides necessary services, awareness, education and research funding to help those families experiencing T1D,” says Joseph.

Since then, Joseph has been inspired by those who are seeking a cure and have committed their lives to keeping their kids safe and well cared for.

“After 30 years of Life Science Venture Capital, I have an appreciation for how hard it is to get “cures to market”. The average drug takes 15-20 years from discovery in the lab to commercialization and $750mm to achieve FDA approval. Many drugs or devices that get approved serve a limited population and may be an incremental improvement, yet JDRF has been investing in the world’s smartest scientists through research grants.  This is no longer false hope,” says Joseph.

Recently Joseph stepped into a new volunteer role as the Pacific Northwest Chapter & Seattle Guild’s Legacy Leader (VLL). As the chapter’s VLL, Joseph joins other volunteers in an initiative to raise awareness about the impact legacy gifts (gifts in wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations etc.) have in ensuring JDRF achieves its vision of a world without T1D.

Since 1995 JDRF has received more than $146 million from legacy gifts and currently 3,800+ supporters have shared that they have included commitments to JDRF with an estimated value of more than $250 million.

Joseph is part of this visionary group of supporters who have included JDRF in their long-term plans. “Including JDRF in our wills was easy, and the impact is great. I hope others will take the time to support JDRF in this meaningful and important way,” says Joseph.

Learn more about legacy giving here.