This year the world has been changed by COVID-19, and we have all faced huge challenges as a result. In recognition of our need to adapt, we have decided to change the JDRF Hope Gala. For the first time in the 14-year history of the Tampa Bay area Night of Hope Gala, we are taking one of our biggest fundraising events virtual. Our commitment to support JDRF’s lifesaving and life changing work is stronger than ever, ignited by our passion for our loved ones and to helping them live in a world without diabetes.
For those who do not know, in 1983 I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) – an autoimmune disease making me instantly dependent on insulin injections in order to survive. Typically known as a hereditary disease, no one in my immediate family had diabetes at the time, so needless to say, my parents were shocked at the news that this young, seemingly health boy, was diagnosed with a life-threatening, chronic disease.
In 1985, my mom and dad, along with a few other passionately devoted parents came together and founded the local JDRF (JDF) Chapter in Minneapolis and were told by the University of MN Medical research scientists that a cure would be discovered in the next 5 to 10 years. Although amazing advancements in technology have occurred from advanced pump therapy to continuous glucose monitors to inhaled insulin, thirty-five years later a cure has still eluded the 1.6 million Americans who deal with this horrifically hidden disease.
Everyday more than 40 children are diagnosed with T1D which strikes suddenly, and I couldn't imagine being a kid all over again, learning I have T1D, without a place to turn to like JDRF. They provide an invaluable community, a dedication to a cure, and sense of hope.
As a person living with T1D and long-time volunteer of JDRF, I am excited to co-chair this year’s 14th anniversary JDRF Tampa Bay Night of Hope Gala. We are all too aware of the impact T1D has on the lives of those we love, and together we continue to celebrate the progress of research and monumental advances that have improved our daily lives! However, there is still much work to be done until JDRF’s mission of a world without T1D can be achieved.
We invite you to join us in celebration by making a gift to Fund A Cure (100% tax-deductible). Your generous gift will help JDRF accelerate our progress on the path to life-changing breakthroughs, improving lives, saving lives and ultimately curing T1D. Join us as we turn Type One into Type None!
JDRF 2020 Night of Hope Gala Co-Chair