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Rick Mulder | JDRF

April 2, 2012

How did you become involved with your support for diabetes?

I became involved with Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) when my son Garrett was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes in August of 2008. Each year, more than 15,000 children and 15,000 adults – approximately 80 people per day – are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in the U.S. It comes on suddenly, causes dependence on injected or pumped insulin for life, and carries the constant threat of devastating complications. 

How long have you been involved?

From Day 1.

What types of events have you been involved in?

We are involved in the annual Walk to Cure Diabetes, which this year will be Sat. April 14th at the Tampa Bay Times Forum. We have formed a team called “Garrett’s Gang” and in the 4 years we have been doing this our team, thanks to employers, co-workers and friends, has raised over $40,000 for JDRF. We have also solicited donation for the annual JDRF Gala that raises hundreds of thousands of dollars each year.

If there was one thing everyone could do to help, what would that be?

Right now that would be to donate, donate and donate. Money is needed to help with research and fund studies. Vast improvements have been made and we just need more to continue until a cure can be realized. What is unique about JDRF is that more than 80% of all monies donated go directly to research. JDRF is the leading global organization focused on T1D research. Driven by passionate, grassroots volunteers connected to children, adolescents, and adults with this disease, JDRF is the largest charitable supporter of T1D research.

What do you see down the road for your involvement?

 
Continued support in raising money for research. This has become a lifelong commitment.