JDRF News Archives
New JDRF Partnership Focuses on “Smart” Insulin Development
JDRF has teamed with Massachusetts-based SmartCells, Inc. to speed the development and testing of SmartInsulin for people with type 1 diabetes. The once-daily injectable SmartInsulin is designed to maintain continuous, tight control of blood glucose levels while reducing the risk of hypoglycemia.
“Hygiene Hypothesis” Linked To Diabetes Prevention In JDRF-Funded Study
A research study funded by JDRF suggests that a common intestinal bacteria may provide some protection from developing type 1 diabetes. The findings, reported in Nature Magazine, provide an important step towards understanding how and why type 1 diabetes develops in people, and may lead to potential cures.
Progression of Type 1 Diabetes Stopped with Short-Term Drug Use
Researchers at Columbia University and the University of California, San Francisco have halted the course of early stage type 1 diabetes for a year by treating patients for just two weeks with a new immune-suppressive drug, which only had minor side effects. The year-long clinical trial is the first to stop the progression of type 1 diabetes using a short-term therapy specifically targeting disease-causing T-cells.
Continuous Glucose Control Improves Pregnancy Outcomes in Diabetes
For diabetic women, continuous glucose monitoring during pregnancy may not only improve glycemic control but also diminish the risk of complications, researchers found.
Ask Google for a Diabetes Doodle on World Diabetes Day (Nov. 14)
Help us spread awareness about the United-Nations designated “World Diabetes Day” on November 14! Please sign an online petition to ask Google for a special World Diabetes Day doodle. Doodles are the different logos on the Google homepage to commemorate special holidays and events. Add your signature today!
UW Researchers Find Intensive Insulin Therapy May Reduce Risk of Hypertension
Patients with type 1 diabetes appear to be less likely to develop hypertension if they maintain tight glycemic control for a prolonged period of time, long-term follow-up of the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) shows.
JDRF Research Director and Brother Discuss Positive, Personal Benefits of CGMs
JDRF’s Dr. Aaron Kowalski and his brother Steve discuss their type 1 diabetes, advances in CGM technology, and an artificial pancreas with New York’s CBS news staff.
JDRF Clinical Trial Shows Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGMs) Improves Blood Sugar Control
Results from a multi-center clinical trial funded by JDRF, to be published in the Oct. 2 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, has found that people with type 1 diabetes who used CGM devices experienced significant improvements in blood sugar control. Better long-term control of glucose levels may decrease the risk for complications.
Pressuring Insurance Companies to Cover CGMs
One woman’s fight for insurance coverage for a continuous glucose monitor is gathering nationwide support. Please take a moment to help JDRF secure coverage for CGMs.
Researchers Convert Pancreas Cells to Produce Insulin
Scientists at Harvard University have transformed one type of cell into another in living mice, a huge step toward the goal of growing replacement tissues to treat diabetes and other diseases. Ordinary pancreas cells were changed into the rarer type that churns out insulin. This exciting breakthrough is a major leap in reprogramming cells, and suggests that someday doctors might be able to use a patient's own cells to treat disease without turning to stem cells taken from embryos.
Enter to Join Nick Jonas’ JDRF Walk Team!
Four lucky winners will join Team Jonas at the JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes on Nov. 1 in Los Angeles. Register for your chance to win from now until Oct. 1 – and learn more about this popular teen musician and type 1 diabetes activist.
New Members Energize JDRF Northwest Boards
JDRF Northwest welcomed several new community leaders to two regional boards this summer. Michael Boyle, Sean Curran, Jonathan Letcher, Bob Nielsen, and Clay Thomson joined the Seattle board of directors, with Mark Bacik at the helm as president. On the South Sound board, we welcomed: Kathleen Clark, Peggy DeGregory, Bobby Erickson, Lisa Kelly, Brynn Meines, and Carol Steifer under the leadership of president Dave Corry.
Tips for Dealing with a New Diagnosis in College
Being a newly-diagnosed college student presents unique challenges for young people. Learn how to make the most of college life with type 1 diabetes, while taking the best possible care of yourself.
Tacoma Teen Athletes Join Type 1 Study
Four teenage rowers are determined not to let diabetes stop them from their athletic goals. They've gone one step further by joining a JDRF-Benaroya Research Institute study to unlock the mysteries of this automimmune disease. Learn how you can help!
Artificial Pancreas Just Years Away, Agree Experts
Top researchers believe that linking continuous glucose monitoring and insulin pumps into an artificial pancreas for millions of people living with diabetes may become a realistic development in the next few years.
Promising Research on Track, Thanks to NW Legislators
JDRF Northwest is grateful to the elected officials from Washington, Montana, and Alaska who rallied support to earmark millions of dollars for type 1 clinical trials and research grants through the Special Diabetes Program this summer.
Congress Approves $300 Million for Type 1 Research
The U.S. Senate passed a Medicare bill including $300 million for research through the Special Diabetes Program in mid-July. The House approved the bill in June. With strong Congressional support, the bill will become law despite President Bush’s veto.
BRI Primed for Major Type 1 Discoveries – With Your Help
A $9.4 million grant from JDRF is supporting scientists at Seattle’s Benaroya Research Institute (BRI) as they integrate genomics, immunology and cell biology into new discoveries, clinical trials, and diabetes therapies. People with type 1 diabetes and their family members can help by donating blood samples to move this important research forward.
Computer Model May Speed Artificial Pancreas Development
A comprehensive software program, recently approved by the FDA, functions as a computer simulator of type 1 diabetes and a pre-clinical testing tool for closed loop research. Among other benefits, this technology may accelerate the pace of human trials of an artificial pancreas.
Success in Growing Human Beta Cells In Vitro
JDRF researchers from France and Israel have discovered that the descendants of adult human beta cells can survive and expand in vitro. If the cells can retain enough original genetic structure, scientists may be able to turn them back into functional, insulin-producing beta cells—a significant therapeutic advance.
JDRF Chairman Shares State of the Foundation
Chairman of the Board Jim Tyree reported on JDRF’s progress in research, cure therapies, and current programs during 2007, and a look ahead at the coming year.
Local Researchers Study Vitamin D Effects
Could high doses of Vitamin D offer possible protection against type 1 diabetes? Scientists at Seattle's Pacific Northwest Diabetes Research Institute (PDRI) are trying to find out.
Join a NW Research Study
Learn about local study opportunities for people with type 1 diabetes and their family members.
WA Volunteers Recognized for Outstanding Advocacy Efforts
JDRF International honored four volunteer Government Relations leaders in Washington State for coordinating and completing 100% of their Promise to Remember Me meetings, which help to secure pledges of support for federal diabetes research funding from members of Congress.
Start Summer with a Bike Bash! (June 20)
Support the JDRF Northwest Ride to Cure Diabetes team as they put the fun in fundraising with the "Bikers, Beer, and a Band Evening and Auction" from 5 – 9 pm Friday at the Issaquah Hilton Gardens Hotel.
Calling All Kids – Design Your Own Racecar!
JDRF kids ages 5-18 have the chance to design a Ford Mustang drag racing funny car, driven by Bob Tasca III, that will race at the NHRA U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis later this year. The winning child and his or her parents will meet Tasca and attend the finals! Entries are due June 20 – learn more!
Bill Including Federal Diabetes Funding May Hit Senate in June
Read the latest legislative update from JDRF Northwest’s Government Relations chair for Washington state.
Dream Gala Raises $4.9 Million
Patrons at the Seattle Guild’s March 8 Dream Gala raised nearly $5 million for JDRF-funded research. The black-tie event, which has raised nearly $40 million in the past 19 years, is one of the largest and most successful JDRF fundraisers in the world.
Baseball & Bonding with the Tacoma Rainiers (RSVP by June 13!)
Enjoy lunch, learn about new pump therapy, and meet the Tacoma Rainiers before watching the 1:30pm game at Cheney Stadium on June 22. RSVP by June 13 for this free event for families affected by type 1 diabetes
Give the Gift of Hope on Father’s Day (June 15)
Honor Dad with a meaningful gift –a donation to JDRF for Father’s Day!
North Bend Pre/K Students Collect Coins—and $4,300—for Research
To celebrate the completion of their 100th day of school, 183 preschool and kindergarten students at North Bend Montessori collected donations for JDRF’s South Sound Walk to Cure Diabetes in honor of a former classmate with the disease.
South Sound Family Raises Type 1 Awareness in Local Magazine
In an article about facts, myths, and life with type 1 diabetes, Seattle’s Child magazine spotlights Renea Zosel, a JDRF Northwest board member for the South Puget Sound region. Zosel’s daughter Elizabeth and three of Elizabeth’s cousins are afflicted with the disease.
Sonics Host JDRF Night on March 28!
Get your tickets now for the March 28 game between the Seattle SuperSonics and the Charlotte Bobcats! JDRF supporters may purchase reduced-price tickets through JDRF Northwest until March 20. Support the Sonics, while raising awareness for a cure! [Download order form in PDF]
New Stem Cell Research Development
Read about a new advance in stem cell research that appeared in the February edition of the scientific journal Nature Biotechnology.
Securing Federal Funds: We’re Not There Yet!
Despite a recent one-year extension of the Special Diabetes Program, JDRF advocates are working to secure a three-year, $200-million-per-year renewal in Congress this year.
Jan. 27 Outreach Event for Facts & Fun
Visit Jump Planet (22310 20th Ave SE Suite 200, Bothell) from 2-4pm on Sunday, Jan. 27. Parents will learn about pump therapy advances and participate in group discussions, while kids bounce away the afternoon on inflatable toys. Contact Shanai Cole at shanaicole@comcast.net for more details.
Academic & Industry Partners Collaborate for a Cure
During a recent visit to Seattle, JDRF Vice President of Research Dr. Paul Strumph discussed JDRF’s new funding initiative, Industry Discovery and Development Partnerships, to bring together pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to accelerate the discovery, development, and commercialization of cure therapies. A major focus is to move promising drugs into human trials as quickly and safely as possible.
Tacoma Area Support Group Meeting—Jan. 17
Join local families living with diabetes for information and support from 6:30 – 8pm at University Place Presbyterian Church starting Jan. 17, and continuing on the third Thursday of every month. Activities for kids are provided. Contact Pam Amann at 253-761-2757 or pamamann@comcast.net for details. For Enumclaw meetings, contact Cathy Rigg at 360-825-1262. In Olympia, contact Jane Wehrli at 360-866-0993 or jwehrli@comcast.net.
New to Type 1, Teen Organizes Jan. 13 Fun Run
Cari Witruk—a 17-year-old student at Kentwood High School near Kent, WA—is taking her new diagnosis in stride by organizing “Distance for Diabetes, a 5K run to benefit JDRF-funded research. Learn more about the Jan. 13 road race and how you can help this inspiring teen go the distance at www.distancefordiabetes.com.
WWU Rower Triumphs in Crew & Diabetes
Meet Alexa Skilling, a 21-year-old college student and a JDRF Northwest local hero!
Back to School with JDRF
Heading back to school with type 1 diabetes can be stressful for kids and families. Visit our school resource section for information, articles, and advice on managing diabetes at school. If you have questions or need a sympathetic ear, sign up for our local Parent-to-Parent Network or e-mail a member of the JDRF online support team. Or join our new online forum to chat with families throughout the Northwest.
Fall is also a great time to meet with your school nurse or gym teacher to set up a school fundraising program. Contact Sarah Popelka at 206-838-5153 or spopelka@jdrf.org to learn more.
Do You Know Where Your Donations Go?
With your help, the JDRF Northwest Chapter and the Seattle Guild’s Dream Gala raised nearly $8 million for research during fiscal year 2007. More than $3.5 million of those funds came back to the Northwest through grants for life-saving research at the Benaroya Research Institute, Institute for Systems Biology, Washington State University, and University of Washington. Thanks to all those who’ve supported our mission through fundraising events, memorials, tributes, and donations of time and money.
Make Your Promise Today
Please join our Northwest advocacy efforts to secure much-need federal funding for type 1 research.
Many Ways to Give
Imagine a world without diabetes. JDRF is now closer than ever to finding a cure and making that vision a reality. The donations we receive make a dramatic impact as JDRF moves life-altering research out of the lab and into human clinical trials. JDRF Northwest welcomes gifts through workplace giving campaigns, including the Combined Federal Campaign, United Way Campaign, and other special fundraising drives. You may be able to designate a small amount of each paycheck, or arrange a single payroll deduction to support diabetes research. Your HR manager can provide more information.
Your donation may be multiplied through a matching gift program, where your employer matches or even doubles your donation. Visit www.matchinggift.com/jdrf to see if your company matches gifts, or call JDRF Northwest at (206) 838-5153 for more details. Thank you for helping us shape the future of diabetes research aimed at a cure.
Legislative Update: Special Diabetes Program Renewal
Learn about the passage of the U.S. House of Representatives bill affecting the funding of the Special Diabetes Program—and why we still need your help!
NBA star and Gonzaga alum Adam Morrison shares his story at JDRF Children's Congress
Seattle at Forefront of Type 1 Research
Seattle, which has one of the highest rates of type 1 diabetes, is a major center for diabetes research with many outstanding research facilities. Learn more in this recent Seattle PI article.
Spring Events Raise Over $5 Million
Spring brought great generosity from JDRF supporters. Big Sky walkers raised nearly $30,000 at the May 19 Missoula Walk to Cure Diabetes at Dornblaser Stadium. On April 28, 144 avid golfers and nearly 300 dinner guests raised over $130,000 for research during the JDRF Spokane Branch “Tee Off FORE A Cure” event in Coeur d'Alene. The JDRF Seattle Guild’s Dream Gala—an annual black-tie extravaganza—drew over 900 patrons and raised a record-breaking $5 million for research on March 10 at the Sheraton Seattle.
JDRF President Shares 2007 Achievements and Future Direction
CEO and President Arnold Donald reflected on JDRF’s accomplishments in the past year, and looks ahead to future goals. Read his 2007 state of the foundation address online.
Questions About New CGMs for Kids?
JDRF has formed a new online support team to answer your questions about continuous glucose monitors (CGM). The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a Medtronic CGM for children ages 7-17 this spring. The device—previously available only to adults?—alerts people with diabetes to potentially dangerous fluctuations in their blood sugar levels. It displays glucose values in real time and alerts patients to dips or spikes in their levels, providing more predictability and convenience to children and parents. Send your questions to the support team, or learn more about CGMs and the JDRF Artificial Pancreas Project.
Swing for a Cure on Sept. 8!
Join us at Gig Harbor’s beautiful Canterwood Golf and Country Club, when JDRF Northwest and RBC Dain Rauscher present the On the Greens golf tournament and dinner auction. After 18 holes of golf, guests will enjoy a cocktail reception, gourmet dinner, and live and silent auctions. Sign up for the tournament, volunteer, or donate an auction item! Contact Brad Benson at JDRF Northwest at 206-838-5153 or bbenson@jdrf.org for details.
Autumn Events in Montana & Eastern WA
Join our Eastern Washington supporters when the Spokane Walk to Cure Diabetes kicks off at Riverfront Park on September 29. Contact Kay C. Dightman at 509-459-6307 or kdightman@jdrf.org for details. Montana JDRF supporters will host two autumn fundraisers. The Bozeman Walk to Cure takes place in Lindley Park this fall. Contact Chrissy Qunell at 206-838-5153 or cqunell@jdrf.org for more details. Contact Trish Duce at 406-549-0554 for more details about this fall’s Missoula Betting on a Cure Texas Hold'em Casino Night at Bitterrroot Motors.
JDRF President Shares 2007 Achievements and Future Direction
CEO and President Arnold Donald reflected on JDRF’s accomplishments in the past year, and looks ahead to future goals. Read his 2007 state of the foundation address online.
Spring Events Raise Over $5 Million
Spring brought great generosity from JDRF supporters. Big Sky walkers raised nearly $30,000 at the May 19 Missoula Walk to Cure Diabetes at Dornblaser Stadium. On April 28, 144 avid golfers and nearly 300 dinner guests raised over $130,000 for research during the JDRF Spokane Branch “Tee Off FORE A Cure” event in Coeur d'Alene. The JDRF Seattle Guild’s Dream Gala—an annual black-tie extravaganza—drew over 900 patrons and raised a record-breaking $5 million for research on March 10 at the Sheraton Seattle.
A New Type of Life with Type 1 Diabetes
JDRF Board Member and mother Christy Hughes was interviewed about her experience after her son Kyle was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 18 months. Read about the Woodinville family's life-changing journey over the past three years in the May 5 Seattle Times.
Parents – Please Lend Your Support and Experience!
We need Parent-to-Parent Network volunteers to help families cope with the challenges and stress of having a child newly diagnosed with diabetes. Volunteer parents provide a sympathetic ear and may share their experience and inspiration in dealing with this life-changing disease. For more details, contact Shanai Cole—JDRF Northwest Bag of Hope Chairperson—at shanaicole@comcast.net or 425-347-0844. Thank you for joining our support team—and making the onset of diabetes easier and less frightening for families new to type 1 diabetes.
Don’t Miss Out On the Pension Protection Act
A new law provides a limited opportunity—from now until the end of 2007—to make charitable contributions from your IRA accounts. The Pension Protection Act of 2006 allows individuals 70 years and older to transfer up to $100,000 in 2006 and 2007 directly from Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA’s) to charitable organizations without generating federal taxable income on the distribution. This law may provide a more tax-efficient way to support JDRF and other organizations. Learn more online here.
New Ride to Cure Debuts in Sonoma
JDRF’s newest fundraising bicycle event, the Sonoma Ride to Cure, takes place on June 21-24. Cyclists will pedal a 100-mile course through Northern California’s stunning wine country to help raise funds and awareness for a cure for diabetes. No cycling or fundraising experience is necessary. For more details, e-mail Susan Horst or call our office at (206) 838-5153.
A Stellar State of the Foundation Report
During an autumn JDRF Northwest Board retreat, West Region Field Operations Director Diana Gray led an orientation for new Board members and shared a national perspective on the state of the organization. The news was excellent. JDRF raised a record-breaking $196 million during the past fiscal year, exceeding financial expectations, while improving organizational efficiency at the same time. As a result, JDRF increased research commitments to $123 million, with $65 million devoted to new projects. JDRF has raised $538 million –more than half– toward the $1 billion goal of the global campaign to accelerate a cure for diabetes. The positive national news and local accomplishments of the JDRF Northwest chapter energized new and returning Board members.
UW Researcher Receives JDRF Grant
Dr. Irl Hirsch, a professor in the Medicine Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition at the University of Washington (UW), was one of several diabetes researchers around the world to receive a JDRF Artificial Pancreas Project grant this fall. The grant is part of JDRF’s $6 million research initiative to speed up regulatory approval, health insurance coverage, and clinician adoption of promising new glucose control and artificial pancreas technologies.
Dr. Hirsch will lead a team that participates in the Continuous Glucose Sensor Human Clinical Trial to compare health outcomes of people who use continuous glucose sensors to those who don’t. Continuous sensors read glucose levels on a minute-by-minute basis using a small sensor inserted under the skin that constantly transmits data to a hand-held device. The devices provide actual glucose readings and also tell a patient whether their glucose level is trending up or down.
The UW is one of nine research centers participating in the large clinical trial, which will investigate whether continuous glucose sensors have a direct impact on better glycemic control, reduced HbA1c levels, and hypoglycemia. It will also explore the impact of sensors on other aspects of diabetes care, such as quality of life issues for children using the devices, as well as their parents. Data will be collected over the next year to evaluate the economic costs and benefits of sensor use.