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Paul Morris, 32, from Dorchester has set himself his biggest challenge yet – cycling 229 miles from London to Paris to raise awareness of type 1 diabetes, a condition he has been living with for the past 20 years

Paul’s three-day ride, which starts on 7 June 2013, is raising vital funds to help JDRF cure, treat and prevent type 1 diabetes. 

Paul said:

'I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes aged 12, soon after I started secondary school. Since then, I have never let it stop me doing anything I’ve wanted to do. I want to raise awareness of the condition and show other people living with it that they can do these challenges too and raise money for a great charity like JDRF at the same time. I’m really excited to be taking part in this year’s London to Paris bike ride and I can’t wait to cross the finish line by the Eiffel Tower. I would encourage others to sign up to a JDRF challenge today.'

Thanks to new technology, Paul’s treatments have changed over the years, from having multiple daily insulin injections, to now being on a pump. He said:

'Last year I was lucky enough to qualify for an insulin pump on the NHS. It’s a small device that pumps insulin through a small cannula placed just below the skin. It gives me much better control of how much insulin I have in my system, and it mimics the way a healthy pancreas would actually work.'

Paul is fortunate – many people with type 1 diabetes do not have access to an insulin pump.

Paul will be cycling the London to Paris challenge with others who also live with the condition - it’s his most arduous challenge yet and he is calling on people to support the cause. 

Local people and businesses have already been very generous in support of Paul’s charity bid. A special thanks goes to Bay Engineering (Weymouth), Arnold Jones Associates (Dorchester), Joy Lane and Co (Dorchester) and Precision Acoustics Ltd (Dorchester).

 Jon Medcraft, Senior Challenge Events Fundraiser, said:

'We are delighted that Paul has decided to do the challenge on behalf of JDRF and we wish him and the team the very best of luck.'

If you would like to donate to JDRF and track Paul’s progress, visit his fundraising page. You can also donate by texting the code PLTP94 and your amount to 70070 (e.g. PLTP94 £10).

JDRF has a number of cycling events on offer in 2013/14 – visit the JDRF Cycle to Cure Diabetes pages and start putting the wheels in motion for the cure

William Chanter, 16, from Crockham Hill in Kent and friend Tom Baker, 15, from Alton are taking on the challenge of a lifetime this summer to raise vital funds for JDRF

The pair will be sailing 60 miles around the Isle of Wight in just a 29er dinghy – leading some to compare the challenge to climbing Snowdon on a pogo stick. 

The teen sailors both live with type 1 diabetes, which affects 29,000 children in the UK. Both want to prove that it doesn’t stop you living your life – and both want to do something positive to raise awareness. 

Their journey will be a record breaking challenge for three reasons. Nobody has ever attempted to circumnavigate the island in such a vessel (a 29er dinghy) before.  Nobody under the age of 17 has attempted it – and nobody living with type 1 diabetes has ever attempted it either. William and Tom hope that it will take eight hours to complete if the weather is favourable.

William, a sixth form pupil at Oxted School, was diagnosed aged six. He has to do multiple blood glucose tests and insulin injections every day. He said:

'The challenge is really important to us – we’re passionate about sailing but just as passionate about raising awareness of type 1 and funds for JDRF. A huge thank you to everyone who has supported us so far and we can’t wait to break some records now.'

Tom, an Eggar’s School pupil, was diagnosed two years ago. He added:

'When I was diagnosed with type 1 it was a huge shock and it took a while to adjust to living with the condition but I was determined not to let it affect my sailing.'

William and Tom will be attending an open day at the Bough Beech Sailing Club, Edenbridge, on Saturday 18 May to talk about their up-and-coming challenge, along with supporters JDRF and Team Blood Glucose.

Nicole Gerrard, Senior Fundraiser for the area, said:

'William and Tom are an inspirational pair. The challenge that they are doing is amazing but to be the first pair with type 1 to attempt it is even more incredible! We are wishing the pair every success in their challenge and thanking them for raising awareness and funds for us – bon voyage to them both!'

Paul Buchanan, CEO of Team Blood Glucose, said:

'Both William and Tom share a common goal, to demonstrate that anyone living with this chronic, lifelong condition can achieve anything if they put their mind to it.'

Support for the teenagers has been fantastic with the whole community getting behind the adventure, including friends and family. Special thanks to the Bough Beech Sailing Club, Team BG, Sanofi, LionTrust, Artemis, River and Mercantile, Somerset Capital Management and AllGoodFun. 

For further information please visit www.sailingroundtheisland.williamchanter.co.uk and to make a donation please visit http://www.justgiving.com/RTI4T1

Andy Richardson wants the world to know that living with type 1 diabetes isn't holding him back.

And he's in a great position to show it – competing in one of Formula 1's junior categories, the British Formula Ford Championship.

Andy's rise from karting to the higher levels of motor racing was put on hold when he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in late 2010, after experiencing excessive thirst and weight loss. After diagnosis, he was forced to take time out from competing, while he learned how to manage his condition through daily insulin injections.

But now Andy, who is 21 years old and from Lincolnshire, is back on the racing track. Furthermore, his powerful Formula Ford racing car has been emblazoned with the JDRF logo – demonstrating his commitment to all those who live with the condition.

The logo certainly hasn’t harmed his luck. Competing at Thruxton race circuit in Hampshire on the Bank Holiday weekend, he achieved two podium finishes, crossing the line in second place in race one, and coming third in race three.

Andy admits that competing and living with type 1 diabetes does bring certain challenges.

He said:

'I don't eat and inject too close to the start of a race because I don't want it to affect my blood glucose levels when I'm behind the wheel. However, due to the intensive and adrenaline-fuelled nature of single seaters such as Formula Ford, I will boost my blood sugars with sugary snacks prior to a race. I have a routine of checking my blood glucose levels regularly in the lead up to the race. Type 1 diabetes doesn't have to limit you in your life. I want to prove that to everyone.'

Michael Connellan at JDRF said:

'We are so thankful to Andy for the phenomenal gesture of placing the JDRF name on his racing car. This will help raise awareness of the condition, and of JDRF’s mission to treat, prevent and cure type 1 diabetes. He is a superb role model for young people who have been diagnosed with the condition.'

Ford is a long-term supporter of JDRF – learn more on the JDRF Corporate partners page.

Follow Andy on Twitter:
@AndyRichardson0 

Some people will always go the extra mile for charity but Gavin Griffiths, a 21-year-old from Kent, is going even further. He has created the 30/30 challenge – running 30 miles every day for 30 days – with Sir Steve Redgrave MBE, boxing champion David Haye and Sir Geoff Hurst MBE all showing their support.

Gavin will be donning running shoes on Saturday 27 April to start the epic journey for JDRF and Diabetes UK. The journey will see Gavin run an incredible 30 miles every day for 30 days across the length and breadth of the UK, running approximately seven hours a day. Starting in John O’Groats, Gavin will take in the sights of Scotland, touching on the North East, the North, running through the Midlands, then the South West to complete his journey at Land’s End.

In January 2000, Gavin was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. He was eight years old. Over the past five years he has become an ultra-marathon runner, completing distances including the 77 mile perimeter of the Isle of Wight and running the 44 mile trip from Hastings to Brighton.

Last summer Gavin was an Olympic torchbearer at Westgate-on-Sea and will bring the torch on his 30/30 adventure. He said:

'I’ve created the GBR 30/30 challenge, running 30 miles for 30 days, to prove that just because I have been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes it doesn’t stop me achieving anything in life. Type 1 diabetes is a life-long condition but I’ll continue to remain positive and live my life to the full. Please support me in my challenge and help raise lots of money for two great charities JDRF and Diabetes UK.'

The challenge is being supported by GBR Nutrition and GlucoMen with support from the MyWhereAbouts app that will be providing Gavin a phone which will provide updates on his location, pace and miles covered each day through to supporters. 

Celebrity supporters include Sir Steve Redgrave MBE who has type 2 diabetes. Steve said:

'I would like to wish Gavin the best of luck with this sponsored run for Diabetes UK and JDRF UK, charities close to my heart. This is indeed a huge challenge and I hope Gavin succeeds as I am sure that he will do.'

Boxer David Haye said:

'I just want to wish you the best of luck in your upcoming challenge. It is a momentous task you are going out to achieve – 30 miles for 30 days! I wouldn’t even take on running a marathon as my body probably wouldn’t be able to hack it, so what you’re putting yourself through as someone with type 1 diabetes is absolutely amazing. This is me David Haye wishing you Gav all the luck in the world, go out there and do your thing!'

Legend Sir Geoff Hurst MBE said:

'I just want to wish you all the very best in your 30/30 challenge, I mean 30 miles a day for 30 days that’s fantastic! I wouldn’t like to run it any month of the year! All the very best for two great charities, and succeed! Good luck.'

Please support the challenge by donating online or by text message: enter the code GBRJ60 for JDRF or GBRD60 for Diabetes UK followed by your donation to 70070 i.e. GBRJ60 £10.

Visit www.diathlete.org for further information on Gavin's challenge.

View Gavin's itinerary »

Follow Gavin on Facebook
GavGbr3030 

Follow Gavin on Twitter
@GBR3030

Watch Gavin's promotional video

Bidford on Avon resident Carl James, 43, is dedicating the next six months of his life to complete eight amazing challenges after months of intense training. Carl is taking on his challenge to raise funds for JDRF, after his son Toby, a pupil at Temple Grafton C of E Primary School, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2008, when he was just 17 months old. 

Carl often went the extra mile by fundraising for JDRF following Toby’s diagnosis. But this is his most epic journey yet - enduring eight challenges across the country. Carl will begin by pounding the streets of London, as his challenge kicks off with the Virgin London Marathon, on Sunday 21 April.

Celebrity adventurer and broadcaster Mark Beaumont is also running the London Marathon for JDRF this year – and has given Carl his backing. He said:

'People living with type 1 diabetes face some very tough challenges. The condition stays with them for life and can have a big effect upon both them and their family. That’s why taking on a tough sporting challenge like the Virgin London Marathon to raise money for JDRF is a fantastic thing to do. I congratulate each and every person who is doing so.'

Carl said:

'When Toby was diagnosed with type 1, I made myself a commitment to fundraise for JDRF every other year, extending the physical challenges every time. I hope that by pushing myself harder and harder it will raise awareness for type 1 diabetes and I’m determined to raise as much money for JDRF as I can. So I would encourage everyone to make a donation, however big or small, to help a great cause.'

Carl’s other challenges include… 

The Dorney Olympic Triathlon, 26 May: Eton Dorney was the home of rowing and canoeing in the London 2012 Olympics – it was also where Carl completed his first triathlon. The Olympic distance is made up of a 1,500m open water swim, followed by a 40km bike ride and finally a 10km run.

Welsh 3,000s, 1 and 2 June: This daunting event involves covering 24 miles in 24 hours – including 13,000ft of ascent along the way, conquering all 15 of the Welsh mountains over 3,000ft.

South Cerney Sprint Triathlon, 15 June: This event involves a 750m open water swim, a 20km bike ride and a 5km run.

Land’s End to Dover cycle, 1 – 5 July: For his biggest challenge, Carl and six amazing friends will ride 400 miles in four days. The event consists of Land’s End to Newton Abbot on day one, on to Poole for day two, then to Brighton on day three and finally on day four crossing the finish line in Dover.

London Olympic Triathlon, 28 July: Another 1,500m swim, 40km pedal and 10km run this time as part of the UK’s largest triathlon around the iconic Royal Docks in London.

Lyke Wake Walk, 31 August: This route means a lot to Carl as his father completed it as a Scout. It will be Carl’s fourth crossing of the 44 mile non-stop route, which extends across the North York Moors from Osmotherley to Ravenscar.

HSBC Olympic Triathlon, 15 September: To end the year Carl is heading back to Eton Dorney for his fourth triathlon of the year – a 1,500m open water swim, a 40km bike ride, and a 10km run.

Jon Medcraft, Senior Challenge Events Fundraiser at JDRF, said:

'We are delighted that Carl has decided to raise vital funds for JDRF, which will help the charity to back research into finding the cure for type 1 diabetes. We look forward to cheering him on during the events and wish him every success.'

Visit Carl's JustGiving page to follow his progress throughout the challenge or donate, or follow Carl on Facebook.

Father-of-three Roddy Riddle, from Inverness, is to become the first ever person with type 1 diabetes to take part in the gruelling six-day, 156 mile Marathon Des Sables challenge in the Sahara.

Roddy, a former international road cyclist, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes five years ago and wanted to compete in the toughest race in the world to show that type 1 doesn’t have to be something which holds you back. Roddy hopes to show others with the condition, who can lose confidence when it comes to exercise, that they can live normal active lives. At the same time he wants to raise awareness of type 1 diabetes and raise vital funds for JDRF and Diabetes UK.

Roddy said:

“The commitment and dedication that comes from the people at JDRF is unbelievable. What makes the connection even closer is many of the people at JDRF live with type 1 themselves.”

The Inverness iron man will begin the Marathon Des Sables challenge on 7 April and will finish on 13 April. The race takes place across one of the harshest regions on earth – the Sahara desert, which reaches temperatures of up to 50°C. The race is the equivalent of running six marathons in six days. It will be essential for Roddy to ensure his blood glucose levels don’t slip dangerously low or too high. To assist him with this he will run with an insulin pump and a continuous glucose monitor (CGM).

Roddy kick-started his fundraising for JDRF and Diabetes UK with an auction dinner and dance on Saturday 2 February. It raised an amazing £17,765 which was split between both charities. Two of the top prizes on the evening were Marathon Des Sables replica tops signed by Sir Chris Hoy, Sir Bradley Wiggins and Sir Steve Redgrave – three British Olympians!

On the night a supportive video was played featuring Caroline Hellicar, JDRF's Director of Fundraising – scroll down to watch the video.

On his return, Roddy will be at the Eden Court Theatre, Inverness, sharing his experiences. Joining Roddy in conversation will be Moray Firth Radio presenter and newspaper columnist Nicky Marr. Expect tales of scorpions and bivouacs, sand storms and insulin pumps. Tickets are £15 with all proceeds going to JDRF and Diabetes UK – find out more about the event and buy tickets

JDRF wishes Roddy the best of luck with his incredible challenge, we will be thinking of him every day of the race. 
You can support Roddy in the toughest race on earth by sponsoring him »

Watch JDRF Director of Fundraising Caroline Hellicar's message of support for Roddy

On 23 March at 6.30pm, over 280 guests arrived at the Marcliffe Hotel and Spa for the eighth JDRF Gala Ball in Aberdeen. Eight hours later the last guests were leaving, with an incredible £136,000 raised for JDRF.

The ball had a Shanghai theme, starting with a drinks reception with Shanghai Sling cocktails. Guests then entered the stunning ballroom, decked out in gold and red with Chinese lanterns hanging from the ceiling, where they were welcomed by host Dougie Donnelly. 11 year old Rachael Pyper then gave a moving speech about how she has coped with life with type 1 since being diagnosed at the age of 10.

A fortune cookie table game was followed by a delicious Chinese-inspired dinner. The star raffle prizes, including a Kindle Fire HD, £200 M&S vouchers and a Samsung Galaxy Tablet, were drawn and then the live auction was underway.  For Lot 13, Professor John Petrie spoke about the vital research he is doing around heart disease and type 1 diabetes at the University of Glasgow, before inviting guests to pledge their support to his research project. 

By the end of the night last year’s total of £112,000 was smashed, with the final figure reaching £136,000. This money will help JDRF to fund vital research to find the cure for type 1 diabetes.

Catriona Morrice, Regional Fundraiser for JDRF Scotland, said:

‘JDRF Scotland would like to thank everyone who attended the Shanghai Ball, kindly donated prizes and volunteered their time on the evening. Together with the hard work of the ball committee in organising the event, everyone helped to make the evening such a great success. A huge thank you to our corporate sponsors whose support and generosity was invaluable on the night. We really would not have been able to achieve any of this without everyone’s support.’

We look forward to seeing you at the Aberdeen Gala Ball in 2014!

Tickets are still available for the Shanghai Ball in Edinburgh on 8 June 2013. Find out more and purchase tickets »

JDRF is calling on people in Cardiff and surrounding areas to join in our Type 1 Discovery Day on Saturday 13 April 2013. The event is an opportunity to learn more about the condition and the work of JDRF.

The JDRF team will be on hand to answer questions. There will also be a talk from Dr Garry Dolton from Cardiff University School of Medicine’s Department of Infection, Immunity and Biochemistry. Dr Dolton will be talking about his research into why certain T-cells attack insulin-producing cells and will be answering questions on the day.

Hannah Jarrett (pictured),16, a JDRF T1 Youth Ambassador from Bridgend will also be talking about living with type 1 diabetes. Hannah was diagnosed two weeks before her 11th birthday. Since being diagnosed, she has endured over 9,000 plus blood glucose tests and over 6,000 injections. She now receives insulin through a pump.

Hannah was a torchbearer at the 2012 Olympics and is dedicated to raising awareness of type 1 diabetes. She said:

'I’m really pleased that I’m able to help raise awareness of type 1 diabetes. JDRF is a great charity and I encourage my family, friends and even strangers to support such a great cause. Finding the cure for type 1 would mean the world, not only to me but my family too, and I know JDRF is dedicated to finding the cure.'

Danielle Angell, JDRF Regional Fundraiser for Wales, said:

'We are looking forward to the up and coming JDRF Type 1 Discovery Day in Cardiff. Whether you are a parent of a child who has type 1, have the condition yourself, have recently been diagnosed or have had the condition for years – the day is aimed to be fun and educational for all in the type 1 community.'

JDRF has issued a special thank you to the Medical Detection Dogs team which will also be there on the day to talk about hypo alert dogs.

This year’s event will be held at the Maldron Hotel, St Mary Street, Cardiff, CF10 1GD between 9.45am – 12.30pm. Find out more about the event and book online, or book by phone on 07531 901186 or by email at dangell@jdrf.org.uk.

LifeScan, the manufacturer of OneTouch Verio Meters, has today announced a voluntary recall and replacement of its OneTouch Verio Pro, OneTouch Verio IQ, and OneTouch Verio Pro+ blood glucose meters.

At extremely high blood glucose levels of 56.8 mmol/L and above, the meters do not operate as intended. This could lead to incorrect treatment or delay proper treatment of extreme hyperglycemia, potentially resulting in serious injury.

The company announced the move on 25 March.

If this affects you, learn more at http://www.lifescan.co.uk/recall

We are delighted to announce that the celebrity adventurer Mark Beaumont will be taking part in this year's Virgin London Marathon on behalf of JDRF.

Mark is a true adventurer. He was previously the world record holder for solo circumnavigation of the world by bike. This journey was made into a BBC documentary, ‘The Man Who Cycled The World,' and a book that has sold more than 100,000 copies worldwide.

In 2010, Mark completed a 13,000 cycle down the length of the Americas, from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego, also climbing the two highest peaks in North and South America respectively. This was also made into a BBC documentary and book. His many other adventures have included rowing to the 1996 location of the Magnetic North Pole to highlight the effects of climate change.

Mark joins us as a Corporate Ambassador for LDC, which has been involved with JDRF since 2007, raising more than £500,000 for the charity. The Virgin London Marathon takes place on 21 April 2013. 

Mark said:

'I'm very proud and really looking forward to be running this year's Virgin London Marathon for JDRF alongside my colleagues from LDC as part of the charity’s 196-strong team. Our aim is to raise £500,000 for research into type 1 diabetes. All of the LDC corporate team and my fellow JDRF runners seem to be training hard and I am sure will be a great inspiration on the day. Despite all the endurance challenges that I have completed, this will be my first marathon!'

If you're feeling inspired and would like to take on a challenge for JDRF, visit our Events section and get involved »

Guests are to be treated to a magical Chinese-style ball staged in Aberdeen to raise funds for JDRF. The Fifth Business is for the fourth year running sponsoring JDRF’s Shanghai Ball on Saturday 23 March. 

The 2013 ball will be held at the Marcliffe Hotel & Spa in Pitfodels, Aberdeen. Scottish golf broadcaster and compere, Dougie Donnelly, will be there to encourage the guests to give generously. 

Those attending will be treated to an evening of dining and live music with both a live and silent auction. They will get the opportunity to learn more about the research that JDRF supports, while enjoying the exciting Chinese theme.

Last year’s ball raised an incredible £112,000 and the JDRF team hopes to trump that figure this year. The funds raised will support research to cure, treat and prevent type 1 diabetes - which affects more than 28,500 people in Scotland alone. Male Scots are more likely to have the condition than females, with 56 per cent of those living with the condition in Scotland being men and boys.

The Fifth Business, which is excited to be part of the occasion, is a long-term JDRF supporter. The company provides JDRF with graphic design, offers support at major events, and has continuously fundraised on its behalf down the years.

Enda Logan is Chief Executive of The Fifth Business and a member of the Scottish Development Group – a collective of leading professionals within Scottish industry that aims to support local charities such as JDRF in Scotland. He said:

'This is sure to be a night to remember and another great opportunity to support a very important cause. The Fifth Business will continue to support JDRF in all its future activities. We wish the team the best of luck.'

Alastair Brookes, JDRF’s Development Manager for Scotland, said:

'As always we are entirely grateful to The Fifth Business for their help for the event but also for their support across the years. Without the support of local businesses and supporters, we wouldn’t be able to fund the research to help find the cure. Thanks to everyone who has made this possible and here’s to a great night – please remember to dig deep.'

Edinburgh will also play host to a JDRF Shanghai Ball on 8 June 2013. Click here to find out more.

On 8 March 2013, to coincide with International Women’s Day, Cathy Ferris from Aberdeen will be leading a dance jam as part of Global Nia 2013.  Nia is an exhilarating dance workout and Cathy’s class, in aid of JDRF, will take part alongside 42 classes in 18 different countries across the world. 

JDRF is committed to finding the cure for type 1 diabetes, improving the lives of people with type 1 until this happens.

Cathy chose JDRF as her beneficial charity, as close friend Mike Unger and Mike’s daughter Grace (pictured), nine, both have type 1 diabetes. Mike has been living with the condition for the past 31 years and Grace was diagnosed aged three years old.

Cathy said:

'I’m thrilled to bring Nia to Aberdeen.  Nia brings me so much joy, and now I have the honour of sharing it with my community, while benefiting JDRF.  I’m hoping to raise £450 and I would encourage people to come to the class or donate online to help JDRF one day find the cure for type 1 diabetes.'

The money raised will help to support vital research into finding the cure for type 1 diabetes and its complications. The chronic condition can strike suddenly and without warning. 

Get involved

The Nia class will be on Friday 8 March 2013, 10 - 11.15am at His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen. Click here to find out more about the event »

If you would like to sponsor Cathy please visit http://www.justgiving.com/Cathy-Ferris

The global JDRF family has been deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Carol Lurie. She and her husband Erwin, together with Lee Ducat and a select few passionate parents founded JDRF in 1970. The Luries' inspiration for founding JDRF was their son, Stephen, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 10.  Ever since, Carol and Erwin played a vital part in JDRF and its contributions to diabetes research, offering continual inspiration, guidance, and support working within the US and internationally. 

She was the inspiration behind three of JDRF's International Conferences on Diabetes Research, held in 1985, 1988, and 1992, co-sponsored by the World Health Organisation.  In October 1994, Carol was honoured by the Queen of Denmark and received Her Majesty's Distinguished Order of the Dannebrog for her efforts on behalf of diabetes research.  She was also appointed to New York State Council on Diabetes in 1988.  In the early '80s, both Carol and Erwin served on Advisory Boards for the National Institutes of Health - Erwin on Board of the National Eye Institute, and Carol on the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's Board

Her son, James Lurie is a Board Director of JDRF in the UK as well as continuing to play an active role within JDRF in the US.  The condolences of everyone at JDRF go out to James and his family.

Michael Thornton, 12, from Canada, has proved that having type 1 diabetes doesn’t stop you living your dreams, after completing football trials with some of the biggest clubs in Europe, including A.S. Roma, Inter Milan, Manchester City and Paris St-Germain.

Michael, who lives in Toronto, Ontario, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes aged six. It was a huge shock as there wasn’t any history of type 1 in the family, but Michael soon began to gain confidence in managing his type 1. He has since proved himself to be a top athlete, completing football trials with some of the biggest clubs in Europe.

Kicking off in Italy

Michael’s international football trials started in 2012, when two Italian scouts were so impressed by a video of Michael's soccer highlights that they invited him to Italy to spend two weeks on trial at AS Roma. While there Michael was fortunate enough to meet the captain of the team, Francesco Totti. In January 2013 Michael returned to Italy to participate in more trials with two other Italian Serie A clubs – Inter Milan and U.C. Sampdoria. Michael captured the attention of the media, being one of the first diabetics they ever had participating in their academy. After receiving a successful report by the coaches and club, he was asked to come back again.

A match with Manchester City

Michael also came to the UK in January 2013 to trial for Manchester City, where he met Roberto Mancini, Head Coach, and players from the first team and former player Mario Balotelli (pictured). Michael was able to talk about living with type 1 diabetes and about JDRF, the work we do and how he is a type 1 ambassador for the charity. He then flew to Paris, France to meet with coaches at Paris St-Germain (PSG) where this would be his last trial before returning to Canada. 

Michael and his parents have experienced a variety of world class soccer clubs and are now left with a decision to where the best environment would be for Michael to grow and develop in football.

Raising awareness of type 1 and JDRF

In August of 2012, Michael was the captain of the Canadian diabetic team, participating in the Medtronic Junior World Cup Soccer Tournament in Switzerland. Michael was lucky enough to meet the Canadian Prime Minister, in Ottawa, in November of 2012 where he raised awareness of JDRF.

He has been heavily involved with public affairs activity in Canada and has shared his type 1 stories with a number of MPs. While he travels the world showcasing his football abilities, Michael is commited to proving that children with type 1 diabetes can compete at the same level as those that don’t have the condition.

Michael said:

'My goal is to play professional football and every success I achieve will be not only for myself but for all individuals living with type 1 diabetes worldwide.'

Read Michael's story in full and watch a video of his trial with A.S.Roma »

Michael showcases his skills to Roberto Mancini

JDRF President Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall today met children living with type 1 diabetes – and Hollywood star Jeremy Irvine – at University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (UCLH).

Jeremy Irvine, who also supports the charity, played the lead role in Steven Spielberg’s blockbuster War Horse. This spring will see him appear alongside Nicole Kidman and Colin Firth in The Railway Man. Jeremy, who will portray a captured British officer in the World War Two epic, applied to join the army himself when he was 19 – but was rejected when the army learned that he has type 1 diabetes.

The event saw Her Royal Highness speak to patients including five-year-old Ben Wilkinson from Bushey, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of just two and Izzi Hickmott,15, from Brighton was diagnosed when she was ten years old. The Duchess of Cornwall also met patients’ families who face such daunting challenges following a diagnosis, which means a dependency upon multiple daily insulin injections or pump infusions simply to stay alive.

UCLH is one of the UK’s leading institutions for insulin pump therapy – a treatment which can drastically improve quality of life for those with type 1 diabetes. Insulin pumps remove the necessity of multiple daily injections and can offer improved blood glucose control, both of which are especially crucial for children.

At UCLH, 64 per cent of patients receive this form of therapy. This compares to a mere 3.7 per cent across the UK. This is one of the lowest rates of pump therapy in any developed nation worldwide, and places the UK behind the Czech Republic.

The Duchess of Cornwall was given a tour of the hospital by Karen Addington, Chief Executive of JDRF and UCLH’s Professor Peter Hindmarsh, who is a leading clinician in paediatric type 1 diabetes treatment.

Jeremy Irvine, who is from Cambridgeshire, was not the only actor present. Susan Hampshire, OBE, known for leading roles in the likes of Monarch of the Glen, was also in attendance as a supporter of JDRF.

Karen Addington said: “We are absolutely delighted to have The Duchess of Cornwall demonstrate her support for the work of JDRF. Type 1 diabetes is a challenging and serious autoimmune condition, often overlooked, which affects 400,000 children and adults across the UK. We are very thankful for her support, which will help more people understand what it is like to live with type 1 and become involved with the work that we do.”

Professor Peter Hindmarsh, consultant paediatric endocrinologist at UCLH, said: "Type 1 diabetes in children places a huge strain on families because of the need to get good long term control and also maintain normal family activities.  Things that we all take for granted - like going on a daytrip - take so much more planning. This is why projects such as the JDRF artificial pancreas are so important. Staff at UCLH work extremely hard to help families cope with this condition. The visit by Her Royal Highness is a great morale boost and will undoubtedly inspire us all to continue our efforts to support patients with this devastating condition."   

More photos of the day will be uploaded soon.

They say a ‘man’s best friend is his dog’ and for JDRF Youth Ambassador Amy Wilton, 17, from Fareham, this is only too true as her best friend is her doting whippet, Holly (aged 10).

Amy has been living with type 1 since the age of five and the relationship between her and Holly goes deeper than just owner and pet. Whenever her blood glucose levels start to drop Holly picks up on this. The dog will lick her hand, jump up at her and stare at her until she realises something must be wrong and this dedicated dog doesn’t stop, she is on the look-out 24 hrs a day!

Due to the loyalty that her dog Holly shows, Amy wanted to give something back and entered a picture of Holly taken on Hill Head beach into the RSPCA’s Young Photographer Awards 2012.

Amy came first in the award and was presented with a trophy and a camera by the RSPCA’s vice president Bill Oddie at an award ceremony.

A huge congratulations to Amy and Holly – well done from everyone at JDRF!

For full details on this story please go to: http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/star-pet-helps-amy-win-award-1-4633901

Draft guidance published today shows that ranibizumab (Lucentis) should now become available on the NHS for some people with Diabetic Macular Oedema.

NICE initially rejected Lucentis as a treatment for diabetic eye disease on cost effectiveness grounds in guidance published in November 2011. Since then, the drug’s manufacturer, Novartis, has agreed a Patient Access Scheme reducing the cost of the treatment to the NHS. Novartis also submitted further information showing the treatment’s effectiveness in a particular group of patients.

NICE’s decision follows hot on the heels of a similar decision taken by NHS Scotland in December.

Rachel Connor, Head of Research Communication at JDRF, says:

‘This is good news for people with diabetes in England and Wales. JDRF was involved in the early phases of developing ranibizumab, which provides a new option for treating diabetic retinopathy, and so it’s great that this investment will now be able to benefit people living with type 1 diabetes in the UK.’ 

JDRF was delighted to be chosen as the beneficiary charity of the live and silent auctions at the annual Christmas lunch of the Association of Women Travel Executives (AWTE).

The lunch was held last Tuesday at the Royal Garden Hotel in Kensington and was a glamorous affair where the champagne flowed and entertainment was plentiful.

Amanda Taylor chose to support JDRF when she became chair of the ATWE board. Amanda's nephew Freddie has type 1 diabetes, so the search for the cure is a cause close to her heart. When she was asked to nominate a charity to benefit from the Christmas lunch, Amanda did not hesitate in choosing JDRF.

Pilot and JDRF supporter Douglas Cairns, who has type 1 himself, was the after dinner speaker and wowed the audience with his tales of adventure, from flying to the North Pole to his around the world flight, all to raise awareness of type 1.

The auction prizes included holidays, hotel stays and a flight with Douglas himself and raised nearly £10,000 for JDRF.

Louise Ingham, Development Manager for the South, East and London, said:

‘We are hugely grateful to Amanda and the AWTE for choosing to support JDRF and to everyone who bid in the auction. The money raised at the event will help us get one step closer to finding a cure for type 1 diabetes’.

Image L-R: Douglas Cairns, Amanda Taylor, Louise Ingham

Matthew Wood, 39 from Wallington, has completed a full month wearing a blue Morphsuit to raise awareness for JDRF. The Sutton Guardian has featured Matthew's story on the front page of today's newspaper, and also produced a short video about his challenge which you can view on their website

World Diabetes Day challenge

Matthew’s challenge started on World Diabetes Day – 14 November 2012 – and he has since attended client and Board of School Governors meetings, ran his Scout and Brownie groups, done charity circuit training sessions, seen Gary Barlow in concert at the Royal Albert Hall and even met Santa Claus as Morph.

Matthew came up with this unusual fundraising challenge after his step-sister Caryn Bishop, a nurse from West Molesey, son Joseph was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in August 2009, aged eight.

Joseph, a pupil at Twickenham Prep School, Hampton, become lethargic, was urinating excessively and had a constant thirst, even getting up in the middle of the night to drink from the bathroom tap. Caryn knew the symptoms of type 1 so visited her GP and they were sent straight to hospital, where this was confirmed.

Caryn said:

'After his first insulin injection, I remember Joseph asking me if he was better and I had to explain he would need these injections and finger prick tests for the rest of his life – it was heartbreaking explaining this to my eight year old son. Having to inject Joseph was not something I prepared myself for, nor was it in any parenting book, nor in my training as a nurse. I cried hysterically after he looked at me and said ‘its ok mum, it didn’t hurt’. Now some 9,000 finger prick tests and over 2,000 injections later Joseph receives insulin via a pump and does everything any other 11 year old does. He has learnt to control his type 1 instead of it controlling him.'

Matthew said:

'This was just one month out of my life and I wanted to do a challenge that was different. You will be pleased to know that I had two suits which I alternated every day and wore for approximately 16 hours per day. Joseph, unfortunately, doesn’t have a break from type 1 and by doing this I hoped to educate people about type 1 and the good work JDRF does in funding research to find the cure.'

JDRF would like to thank Matthew for coming up with such an unusual and brave fundraising challenge. If you would like to take on your own fundraising challenge, have a look at 'Your fundraising stories' and get inspired!

The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health has today announced that a quarter of children and around half the population have low vitamin D levels. News stories have linked this to a rise in health conditions including diabetes. 

The organisation is urging that supplements should be made easily available.

The main role of vitamin D in the body is to keep bones and teeth healthy and there are many benefits to ensuring that you get the recommended daily allowance. The main source of vitamin D is sunlight but it is also found in oily fish, eggs and fortified cereals. 

Although low levels of vitamin D have been associated with increased risk of developing type 1 diabetes, this link has not been conclusively proven.  Importantly, no clinical trials have as yet demonstrated that adding more vitamin D to a diet can prevent type 1.

The Department of Health currently recommends:

• All pregnant and breastfeeding women should take a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms of vitamin D, to ensure the mother’s requirements for vitamin D are met and to build adequate fetal stores for early infancy.
• All babies and young children aged 6 months to 5 years should take a daily supplement containing vitamin D in the form of vitamin drops, to help them to meet the requirement set for this age group of 7.0-8.5 micrograms of vitamin D a day. 
• However, babies who are fed infant formula will not need vitamin drops until they are receiving less than 500ml (about a pint) of infant formula a day, as these products are fortified with vitamin D. 
• Breastfed infants may need to receive drops containing vitamin D from one month of age if their mother has not taken vitamin D supplements throughout pregnancy.
•  People aged 65 years and over and people who are not exposed to much sun should also take a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms of vitamin D

When Jayson and Vicky Shaw from Bedford heard that their son Joshua’s clinic may not be able to hold their annual Christmas party due to lack of funds, they both sprang into action. It wasn’t long before the party was back on as they quickly gathered support from the local community and the Rotary Club of Bedford. They even had an amazing offer of free entertainment from Mad Science.

The party was held on Wednesday 12 December and twenty three children (who were all affected by type 1 diabetes in some way) enjoyed an afternoon of interactive science fun by Nitro Nick and temporary festive tattoos from Vicky. They also tucked into a cooked meal and even had a special visit from Santa, who treated the children to a gift and a bag of magic reindeer food to sprinkle on their garden on Christmas Eve.

Vicky and Jayson would like to thank everyone who helped to make the Christmas party a success. They would also like to give a special thank you to Mad Science for providing entertainment for the children free of charge.

Today the Scottish Medicines Consortium approved Lucentis® (ranibizumab), the first medicine licensed to treat visual impairment due to Diabetic Macular Oedema, for restricted use within NHS Scotland.

This decision puts Scotland ahead of the rest of the UK in granting access to Lucentis. The makers of the drug, Novartis, estimate that the decision means that approximately 4000 people living with Diabetic Macular Oedema in Scotland will now be eligible to benefit from the treatment.

Novartis has worked with the Scottish Medicines Consortium to put in place a Patient Access scheme that helps to ensure the new treatment meets cost effectiveness criteria set by NHS Scotland.

Rachel Connor, Head of Research Communication at JDRF comments:

‘JDRF is delighted that the Patient Access Scheme for Lucentis means that people living with Diabetic Macular Oedema in Scotland may now be eligible to access to this innovative treatment. Lucentis is a new tool, which JDRF helped to develop, for clinicians working with people with diabetes.  It has the potential to not only prevent further vision loss, but also repair some of the damage that has already occurred.’

Phil Packer MBE, the founder of the British Inspiration Trust (BRIT) is on the last leg of his incredible 2,012 mile journey, that will finish on the 18 December 2012 and would have seen him walk the equivalent of approximately 310 marathons in 331 days. JDRF is delighted to be able to join Phil in walking the last mile of his journey and will be there to show our support for such a great cause.

22,000 'additional' people in England and Wales died last year because of diabetes and its complications, shows the National Diabetes Audit, released today. The report noted 'The years of life lost are especially notable in people with type 1 diabetes'.

The report highlighted the significantly increased risk of heart disease for people with diabetes, who are 48% more likely to have a heart attack than people without the condition. It also showed that people with diabetes were more than 25% more likely to have a stroke and twice as likely to need dialysis or need a kidney transplant.

The risk of complications from diabetes can be reduced by achieving good long term blood glucose control, however 70% of people with type 1 diabetes, including 85% of children, are not managing to keep their long term blood glucose measurement within the target range.  There is also a 'post code lottery' of access to the technologies and treatments, like insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors, to help manage the condition.

Karen Addington, Chief Executive of JDRF, said:

'These are worrying figures for anyone with type 1 diabetes, or who has a child or loved one living with the condition and they highlight, once again, why increased investment in research to cure, treat and prevent type 1 diabetes and its complications, and access to the treatments that come from this research is so vital.'

Find out about JDRF's work to cure, treat and prevent type 1 diabetes, and how you can get involved with research and campaigning for increased government focus on the condition.

JDRF supporter Jeremy Irvine, star of blockbuster War Horse and new release Great Expectations, was on Sunrise, Sky News this morning (Thursday 29 November 2012). He talked about his work with JDRF, artificial pancreas research and life with type 1 diabetes to presenter Stephen Dixon, who also has type 1.

Jeremy has previously been involved with JDRF funded research into the artificial pancreas. Find out more about this project here.

Neil McDonald is a firm candidate for JDRF’s ultimate fundraiser, after raising £120,000 through his Climbing for a Cure campaign. Neil has taken part in a series of exhibitions for JDRF, and scaled Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak at 8,848 metres, this May.

The Aberdeen-based dad started to raise funds for JDRF after his 10-year-old daughter, Darcey (pictured with Neil), was diagnosed with type 1 at the age of three. His wife Linzie has also tirelessly fundraised for the cure, organising the Climbing for a Cure Bond Ball in September 2011, which raised an amazing £80,000 for JDRF.

In preparation for the Everest climb, Neil and his climbing partner, Radek Dusatko, scaled some of the world’s highest mountains. To qualify for the Everest climb they had to climb Aconcagua (the highest mountain in South America), which is 7,000 metres and took nearly three weeks. To qualify for this the pair had climbed Mont Blanc, and at the start of the campaign Neil climbed Ben Nevis to train. The whole process took two and a half years, with Neil training five days a week, every week.  

Neil was on Everest itself for two months, in between Everest Base Camp and the higher camps. As well as the extreme physical challenges of altitude sickness and hydration, the expedition was mentally taxing. Neil helped rescue one stranded climber, for which he was nominated for the title of Sunday Mail Great Scot of 2012.

Neil said:

‘The thought of Darcey sustained me. The pain was nothing compared to the difficulties my little girl has had to go through with type 1, living with injections of insulin and pinprick blood testing daily just to keep her alive. I knew that I could simply turn around and go back down but Darcey doesn’t have that choice. She has to deal with her situation every day forever until we get a cure.’

The training and exhibition were completely funded by Neil, which meant that all the money received through sponsorship and donations will go directly to supporting JDRF’s work.

Neil’s sponsor, Fifth Business, have put together a video about Neil’s Climbing for a Cure campaign.

Local man Matthew Wood, 39, has pledged to wear a blue Morph suit every day for a month to help raise awareness and funds for JDRF. 

Matthew’s challenge started on World Diabetes Day – 14 November 2012 – and he has continued with his day to day life as Morph attending client and Board of School Governors meetings, running his Scout and Brownie groups, doing charity circuit training sessions, seeing Gary Barlow in concert at the Royal Albert Hall tonight (27 November) and even meeting Santa Claus as Morph.

The man behind the Morph came up with this unusual fundraising challenge after his step-sister Caryn Bishop, a nurse from West Molesey, son Joseph was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in August 2009, aged eight.

Joseph, a pupil at Twickenham Prep School, Hampton, become lethargic, was urinating excessively and had a constant thirst, even getting up in the middle of the night to drink from the bathroom tap. Caryn knew the symptoms of type 1 so visited her GP and they were sent straight to hospital, where this was confirmed.

Caryn said:

'After his first insulin injection, I remember Joseph asking me if he was better and I had to explain he would need these injections and finger prick tests for the rest of his life – it was heartbreaking explaining this to my eight year old son. Having to inject Joseph was not something I prepared myself for, nor was it in any parenting book, nor in my training as a nurse. I cried hysterically after he looked at me and said ‘its ok mum, it didn’t hurt’. Now some 9,000 finger prick tests and over 2,000 injections later Joseph receives insulin via a pump and does everything any other 11 year old does. He has learnt to control his type 1 instead of it controlling him.'

Joseph is just one of 29,000 children to live with type 1 diabetes in the UK, with 400,000 people living with the condition.

Matthew said:

'This was just one month out of my life and I wanted to do a challenge that was different. You will be pleased to know I have two suits which I alternate every day and approximately wear for 16 hours per day. Joseph, unfortunately, doesn’t have a break from type 1 and by doing this I hope to educate people about type 1 and the good work JDRF does in funding research to find the cure.'

To follow Matthew’s ‘Month as a Morph’ challenge, visit his Facebook page for daily updates http://www.facebook.com/matthew.wood.9484 and if you would like to donate please do so here: http://www.justgiving.com/MattsmonthasaMorph-Wood

On 28 November 2012, Leicester Grammar School will be holding an assembly to raise awareness of type 1 diabetes and funds for JDRF. 

The initiative is fully supported by the pupils who live with type 1 including Year 12 student Robin McFarland, aged 16, from Leicester. Robin has been living with type 1 for the past four years and in order to control the autoimmune condition receives a continuous supply of insulin through an insulin pump which helps him to manage his type 1 diabetes. 

Helena Cooper, aged 18 from Kibworth, also supports the latest project. Helena was diagnosed with type 1 at age six and is in Year 13 at the school.

There are 400,000 people living with type 1 diabetes in the UK, 29,000 of these are children with the common aged of diagnosis being between 10-14 years old.

Both pupils and teachers are supporting the campaign and Head of Year 11 Mr Thacker knows only too well the importance of raising awareness within the school, having been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes himself.

Mr. Thacker said:

'Both on a professional and personal level I felt it was essential to educate the school, so everyone is aware of the condition and how to look for signs and symptoms. It’s vital that the pupils at the school who have type 1 are not treated any differently and get the same education as everyone else. We really hope that it helps to raise awareness of JDRF, who do a fantastic job in trying to find the cure.'

Following on from the success of the "Talking T1" pack for primary schools, and with support from Lilly, a leading healthcare company with a long heritage in diabetes, JDRF has created “Talking T1” – Teens with type 1 diabetes, an education resource to help schools support secondary school students with type 1 diabetes and their families across the UK. 

Lee Newman, JDRF’s Development Manager for Midlands said:

'We aim to educate the educators to raise awareness and understanding of type 1 diabetes and provide school staff with a practical tool to support the needs of young people with type 1 in schools. Unfortunately, more and more children are being diagnosed each year, so it is vital that people are aware of the condition. Children spend nearly as much time at school as they do at home, so helping schools prepare so that the condition can be effectively managed in the classroom is really important. I ask every school to order its free pack and begin “Talking T1”. We are grateful to Leicester Grammar School for helping to raise awareness and wish them every success on the day.'

To help raise funds on the day, Librarian Trish Ingham along with her knitting group, The Knatty Knitters, will be knitting the ’12 knits of Christmas’ which will be raffled as part of the fundraising initiative.

Clarence House goes 'Royal Blue' for World Diabetes Day

This year Clarence House turned blue for the first time to mark World Diabetes Day and Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall's Presidency of JDRF. 

Clarence House joined landmarks across the UK and the rest of the world in marking the day.

The Duchess of Cornwall, who is currently on a tour of Papua New Guinea, Australia and New Zealand to mark The Diamond Jubilee, has agreed to Clarence House “going blue” to show support for the 400,000 people living with type 1 diabetes in the UK, of which 29,000 are children.

Karen Addington, Chief Executive, JDRF said:

'We are thrilled to have The Duchess of Cornwall as JDRF’s President. We are working hard to support research to cure, treat and prevent type 1 diabetes and we are very grateful to Her Royal Highness for her efforts to raise awareness of this serious autoimmune condition.'

World Diabetes Day messages

JDRF T1 Youth Ambassadors, children and young people from across the UK, have sent their own messages of thanks and hope for the cure for type 1 diabetes to HRH. These were delivered in a World Diabetes Day card to Clarence House by a special envoy of T1 Youth Ambassadors and JDRF’s mascot Rufus, the Bear with Diabetes.

Delivering the card to Clarence House were Amy Wilton (17), Eleanor Lotsu (12), Sam Barkway (11) and Bella Radley (6).

Amy was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes aged five years old, and since then has had over 17,000 insulin injections to help her manage her condition. Since diagnosis she has been a passionate supporter of JDRF, even sharing her story with President Obama at the charity’s US lobbying event Children’s Congress in 2008. 

Bella, Eleanor and Sam all control their condition with an insulin pump that delivers a continuous supply of insulin. Bella was two years old when she was diagnosed, and Eleanor and Sam were both seven. 

Sam told us:

‘I am thrilled to be able to represent the 29,000 children who have type 1 diabetes just like me. It’s really exciting to get to visit Clarence House and I will never forget it.’

Cambridge Wellcome Trust clinical research facility

Amy has previously spoken to Her Royal Highness about living with type 1 diabetes when she visited the Cambridge Wellcome Trust clinical research facility in April 2012 to learn more about JDRF and type 1 diabetes research. 

Also present at the visit were BBC Radio 4’s Today Programme presenter Justin Webb, his wife Sarah Gordon and their son Sam, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2008.

Justin Webb commented:

'I am hugely grateful to The Duchess for taking an interest in JDRF and in an area of medical charity work that is outside the mainstream - but that promises a new lease of life to the children whose lives have been turned upside down.'

Amelia Lily has shown her support for JDRF and World Diabetes Day.

She told us:

‘I was excited to hear that for World Diabetes Day, Clarence House will be turning blue to mark Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall's presidency of JDRF, the type 1 diabetes charity. It’s a great charity that does some fantastic research in order to find the cure for people living with type 1, just like me.’

The pop star found fame in the eighth series of the X Factor in 2011, mentored by Kelly Rowland. Amelia’s debut single ‘You Bring Me Joy’ was released in September this year and charted at number two in the UK singles chart.

She has been tireless in her efforts to raise awareness of type 1 diabetes and to educate the general public and challenge some of the myths and misconceptions. In doing so she has become a role model for children and young people living with the condition.

JDRF is delighted to announce that Webroster Ltd has raised over £700 for JDRF in an online auction to celebrate the company’s 10th anniversary.

Webroster has provided online workforce management solutions for the past 10 years, including the system issued widely in the care, security and cleaning industries to roster, manage and track staff. The auction celebrated Webroster’s 10th anniversary and ran from 10-24 October 2012. Customers were invited to participate by bidding on the 10 items that were up for auction. All items were donated by Webroster, its staff and suppliers. They ranged in value from home grown chillis to training days, a smartphone and football tickets. All items started the auction at £1 yet the highest bid was £250 for a support and development day with the Webroster team.

JDRF is a charity close to Webroster’s heart. Managing Director Nigel Gittins raised £1,760 for JDRF by cycling from London to Paris in 2010. He said:

'It is great to see so many of our customers getting involved in the auction to raise money for charity, everyone has been very generous and we are delighted to be celebrating our 10th anniversary by helping a worthwhile charity.'

Louise Ingham, JDRF Development Manager for London and South East, said:

'Thank you to all of Webroster’s fantastic staff and customers for their generosity and support for our efforts to find the cure for type 1 diabetes. Congratulations too to Webroster on reaching such an important milestone!'

Millie Hainge, a 10 year old pupil at Milverton House School in Nuneaton, is asking teachers and pupils within the school to wear an elastic band around their wrists on the 14 November, World Diabetes Day which they have to ‘ping’ each time they eat or drink any food stuffs containing carbohydrates.

Millie (pictured) is one of 29,000 children in the UK living with the life-long condition and is keen to raise awareness of type 1 and JDRF. JDRF is determined to find the cure, so children like Millie wouldn’t have to constantly do finger prick tests and carb count to help keep their type 1 under control.

Millie, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in November 2011, said:

'The idea of ‘pinging’ an elastic band every time you eat or drink foods containing carbohydrates is similar to someone with diabetes continually finger pricking to check blood glucose or injecting insulin. We all take for granted that we can eat and drink anything at any time, so this is a fun way of helping my friends and teachers understand what I have to do every day to stay healthy.'

Mr Pipe, Head Teacher at the school, said:

'When Millie was first diagnosed we were all very worried for her, but she returned and settled back into school life very quickly. We did make minor adjustments within the school, the teaching and wider staff all received education from the local hospital on how to help Millie manage the condition. She is a very active member of the school community and when she approached me to ask for permission to hold this awareness event I was delighted to support her – I will be ‘pinging’ my elastic band.'

JDRF has developed "Talking T1" – teens with type 1 diabetes, a free resource for secondary schools to educate teachers, pupils and parents about type 1 diabetes, in a fun and interactive way. This follows on from the success of the "Talking T1" pack for primary schools.

Click here to order your "Talking T1" pack

Report finds that ‘progress in delivering the recommended standards of care and in achieving treatment targets has been depressingly poor.’

The Committee, which scrutinises public spending and focuses on value-for-money criteria based on economy, effectiveness and efficiency, this morning issued a damning report on the state of care for adults living with diabetes.

MPs found that NHS accountability structures have failed to hold commissioners of diabetes services to account for poor performance. And that standards of care, although improved mean that only half of people with diabetes, and less than one third of people with type 1, are getting all their nine care processes every year.  In addition, fewer than one in five people are achieving HbA1C, blood pressure and cholesterol targets.

The Committee warned that unless significant changes are made, the health burden on people with diabetes, and the cost to the NHS, will continue to grow.  We support calls for the Department of Health and NHS to make healthcare for diabetes a priority, and we continue to work with Government to improve access to treatments and technology for type 1 diabetes, and to increase funding for medical research to cure, treat and prevent the condition.

Get involved with JDRF’s campaigning work

To mark World Diabetes Day on 14 November, JDRF is kick starting two weeks of fundraising in the office with a blue quiz.

For World Diabetes Day this year we are focusing on raising awareness of type 1 diabetes in schools. Just £20 would mean we could reach 2,000 secondary school children with information, and offer them the opportunity to understand type 1, and support the children in their school who live with it.

Our goal is to raise £35,000, if you would like to donate towards this or to plan your own fundraising, find out more on our WDD page. 

Over the next two weeks JDRF staff will be getting involved in a variety of blue related activities from a blue bake sale to a blue treasure hunt, from blue hat/hair day to blue food for lunch.

Follow us on Facebook or Twitter to be kept up to date with all our activities.  And don’t forget to tell us all about what you’re planning.

So to start you off, why not join in with our blue quiz? 

1. Blue litmus paper turns red under what conditions?

2. In which country does the Blue Nile meet the White Nile?

3. Which cocktail is made of gin or vodka, with lemonade, ice and blue curacao?

4. Who directed the film Blue Velvet?

5. What are the first names of the ‘Blues Brothers’ in the 1980 film?

6. In what year did singer Joni Mitchell release her album, Blue (Closest year wins bonus point for exact date)?

7. In what country is the presidential residence called The Blue House?

8. Who scored a number 1 hit with Blue (Da Ba Dee) in 1999?

9. What is the name of the blue fish in Finding Nemo?

10. Stilton is a type of blue cheese, but in which county is the village of Stilton?

11. In what year was the first Blue Peter aired? (Closest answer wins, bonus point for exact date)

12. What colour are a Blue-Jay’s feathers?

13. What was the first single the band Blue released?

14. A Blue Whale’s tongue weighs roughly the same as which other animal?

Well done to Mike, our Database Manager, for winning the blue quiz. 

Click here to download the answers. 

JDRF is delighted to announce that Chris Southwell has been named as a World Diabetes Day Champion by the International Diabetes Federation. Chris is recognised as one of the UK’s leading professional free rise snowboarders, and is an ambassador for JDRF.

Chris was unexpectedly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes eight years ago, in his early twenties. Instead of letting the diagnosis hold him back, Chris decided to use his experiences and positive outlook to help others. He does a number of lectures around the world on living as professional extreme athlete with type 1 diabetes, and has spoken at JDRF events.

Chris said:

'I hope that my life experiences will motivate and inspire other people, and particularly young people, which is the reason why I am an ambassador for JDRF and I strongly support the important work it does to find the cure for type 1 diabetes and its complications.  I believe that if you have the right control, determination, positive outlook and attitude you can achieve even your wildest of dreams… I am living mine!'

His latest venture is being launched soon: 7C7A – 7 challenges in 7 continents. These events are:

1. July 2013 – Iron Man Zurich (Europe)
2. October 2013 - 100 miles Himalaya stage race (Asia)
3. January 2014 – Trans Andre Challenge (South America)
4. May 2014 – Climb Mount Kilimanjaro (Africa)
5. November 2014 –Antarctic Ice Marathon (Antarctica)
6. February 2015 – Coast to Coast (Australasia)
7. July 2015 - New York to Miami (cycling) (North America)

There will be opportunities to join him in two of the challenges: climbing Kilimanjaro and cycling New York to Miami which will be set up into stages so people can decide how far they would like to bike.

The International Diabetes Federation explained why they selected Chris as a World Diabetes Day Champion:

‘To many young people Chris is inspirational in his untiring work for type 1 diabetes. How he copes with his career, which does not exactly go hand in hand with injecting insulin four times a day in extreme circumstances, is certainly good reason for Chris being a WDD Hero!’

To find out more about the 7C7A challenge, click here.

To find out more about joining Chris on the 7C7A challenge, contact Adele Claase at events@jdrf.org.uk or on 020 7713 2030.

Steve Paxton of Nuneaton and Nigel Hammond of Milton Keynes are both fathers of children with type 1 diabetes. They have composed a song, Innocent Eyes, which will be released on CD and as a download to coincide with World Diabetes Day on 14 November to raise money for JDRF. 

Steve's children Francesca, nine, and Jacob, seven, were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes aged six and five. Steve wanted to use his lifelong interest in the music business to write these meaningful lyrics about a father’s perspective of having a child with type 1, and Nigel developed the accompanying music.  

Steve commented: 

'I have two children with type 1 diabetes, and am naturally keen to raise money for JDRF. We started this project as a result of a video that some mothers of type 1 children have made reciting a poem called 'A Mother’s Anthem'. Someone asked if there was a father’s version and if not, suggested that one of the dads might like to take up the challenge. I used to write lyrics and decided to put my skills to use, and once I’d finished I thought that it could be taken one stage further and be developed into a song. I was then put in touch with Nigel, who writes music in his spare time, and ‘Innocent Eyes’ was the result. We’re delighted with it and really hope that people will buy the track to help us raise as much money as possible to support research into type 1 diabetes.'

The duo plan to release Innocent Eyes on CD and as a download. The video is currently being produced and vocals being laid down. The project is on track to launch on World Diabetes Day, 14 November.

Hannah Gripton, Fundraiser for the Midlands said:

'We are really grateful to Steve and Nigel for their thoughtful fundraising activity. The song is a personal message that reflects Steve’s story and we know many people will be able to relate to this. There are 29,000 children living with type 1 diabetes and JDRF is determined to find the cure.'

On Saturday a jumble sale was held in Wortham Village Hall to raise money for JDRF, along with two other charities. The event was inspired by Madeleine, 14, who has had type 1 since early 2011.

Madeleine’s parents Sarah and Matthew said:

‘Since Madeleine was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, JDRF has been a cause close to our hearts. More research needs to be done to find the cure, and that's why we support JDRF.’

They were joined by seven other local families who helped to organise the jumble sale. The sale started at 10am on Saturday 20 October, but some people were so keen they queued from 8.30am. About 400 people attended the sale, and the families were delighted by how far people travelled to support the sale.

Madeleine ran a tea stall during the morning and raised over £50 from cakes kindly made by the family’s new neighbours and refreshments donated by Morrisons supermarket. So far the sale has raised over £700 for JDRF, East Anglian Children’s Hospital (EACH) and the local Air Ambulance.

The families involved would like to thank everyone who came and supported the event on the day, and the many people who helped by donating items. If you were unable to attend the event but would still like to donate some money, visit www.justgiving.com/madsgaragesale

Image taken from article in Diss Express.

We are very proud to announce that JDRF T1 Youth Ambassador Zoe Scott has been presented with the People’s Award at the 2012 Quality in Care Diabetes Awards. The award recognised her work in setting up Hedgie Pricks Diabetes, an organisation raising awareness of and helping to tackle the psycho-social challenges faced by young people with diabetes.

The Quality in Care Diabetes Programme is supported by Diabetes UK, NHS Diabetes and Sanofi, and recognises good healthcare practice in diabetes in the UK. It comprises both an awards event and subsequent opportunities for finalists to explain why their efforts were successful to a wider healthcare audience. This sharing of best practice aims to ensure that successful initiatives are more widely adopted across the UK.

On the night JDRF was highly commended for its “Talking T1” Schools Programme. The programme is supported by Lilly, and was recognised as a project facilitating new or improved diabetes services through an industry/charity partnership.

Other awards included the best early detection and prevention initiative, presented to Ipswich NHS Trust for its Ipswich Touch Test to screen for neuropathy at home, and the outstanding educator in Diabetes award was given to Heather Daly, a nurse consultant at University Hospitals Leicester.

Simon Mitchell, Community Relationship Manager at JDRF said:

'I am very proud that JDRF has been recognised for its Schools Programme alongside such fantastic diabetes healthcare initiatives across the UK. And well done Zoe Scott for being acknowledged for her efforts to highlight the psychological and social effects of diabetes on young people. This is a cause that is important to many of our T1 Youth Ambassadors and her work will be an inspiration for all.'

This Saturday (20 October) two local mums will be hosting the Sugar Plum Ball at the Castle Hotel, High Street, Windsor to raise vital funds to help JDRF. Enterprising mums Dawn Pritchard and Leyla Watson were spurred on to raise not only funds but also awareness after both of their sons were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of eight.

Dawn and Leyla hope to raise £20,000 and have been busy planning and encouraging people to come and have some fun while helping JDRF to find a cure for type 1 diabetes.

Dawn told us:

'In November 2008, both my son Cameron and Leyla’s son Samuel were sadly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. They were only eight. From that moment our entire families’ lives changed for ever. We could not have known when our baby boys were born that eight years later they would develop this devastating, incurable disease for no obvious reason. On the outside, children with type 1 diabetes look like every other kid. They play sport, go to school and have fun with family and friends, but on the inside they face a lifelong struggle as their pancreas no longer produces the insulin they need to keep them alive. People think injectable insulin is a cure. It’s not. It’s just life support. It allows us and them to manage their disease but not control it.'

Leyla continued:

'Every minute of every day is balancing act of measurements and actions – involving activity, food, emotions and insulin. Diabetes doesn’t take holidays; it doesn’t stop for sleep or celebrations. Cameron and Samuel can’t be carefree like other children. They can’t run on a football pitch and start playing, they have to do a blood sugar test first and take insulin every time they want to eat anything. They have to do at least seven fingertip blood tests every day and have multiple injections just to stay alive. Since they were diagnosed four years ago, they have each done around 10,220 finger prick tests and around 7,000 injections/pump insertions. They are very brave but unless a cure is found they will have to go through this their entire lives.'

The money raised will help to support vital research into finding the cure for type 1 diabetes and its complications.  The chronic condition, which can strike suddenly and without warning, affects an estimated 400,000 people across the country, including 29,000 children.

Nicole Gerrard, JDRF’s Senior Fundraiser for the area, said:

'It’s people like Dawn and Leyla who really help to make a difference. Without this kind of generosity we wouldn’t be able to do what we do and I’m entirely grateful for their help.'

If you would like to support, sponsor or attend the Sugar Plum Ball, please email sugarplumdinnerdance@hotmail.com

Earlier this year two fundraising families from Cardiff went all out for us, organising the Mumbai Ball and seeing JDRF become charity of the year for the Carten100 group. We are delighted to announce that today we received a cheque for £85,293.98. This will go towards vital research, including projects at Cardiff University, in order to help find a cure for type 1 diabetes.

The Ridgwell and Burch families presented the cheque earlier this morning at the Sports Council of Wales, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff. It was the enthusiastic fundraising efforts of both families that made the final figure raised reach such a staggering amount, and JDRF was delighted to be able to thank both families at the cheque presentation.   

Both families know first-hand the importance of finding the cure, as the Ridgwell’s daughter Katie was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes three years ago when she was nine years old. Lis Burch’s two children also live with the condition. Her daughter Ismay was diagnosed in 2006 aged eight years old, along with her brother Marcus, 17, who has been living with the condition for the past nine years.

Lloyd Ridgwell joined Peter Palmer, Dave Stealy, James Lewis among others in delivering the Carten 100 in May this year. A record breaking 650 cyclists took part, starting their journey from Cardiff and ending up in Tenby. The Carten 100 Organising Group was delighted at the number of riders who participated in the 2012 event, generating over £71,000 for JDRF. Peter Palmer said:

'We were delighted that the 2012 event was such a success and the event is growing in popularity each and every year. A huge heart-felt thanks to all our sponsors, who collectively donated £10,000 to the cause. A special thank you to the companies that provided the van and bike support. Finally, the biggest thanks of all goes to everyone who trained and dedicated their time to fundraise and crossed the finish line.'

The Mumbai Ball was organised by Janine Ridgwell and Lis Birch to support the Carten100 bike ride. It was held a month earlier in April at the Cardiff Coal Exchange, and saw over 300 enthusiastic supporters enjoy a wonderful evening of dancing and dining. The night raised over £13,000 for JDRF, through ticket sales, an auction and a prize draw. 

Lloyd Ridgwell said:

'On behalf of my family, I am entirely grateful to our friends, family and strangers who supported us for dedicating their time and efforts to such a great cause. We are firm supporters of JDRF. We heard about the charity, via the hospital, when Katie was first diagnosed and appreciated the help we initially received and still do receive from them. We will continue to fundraise in order to help JDRF one day find the cure for Katie and so many others living with type 1.'

The Carten 100 was generously supported by MyLife Diabetes Care

Living Cell Technologies has announced the results of their latest human trial of encapsulated islets. 

The trial, which took place in New Zealand with support from JDRF, aimed to test if transplanting encapsulated islets is safe, and to determine what ‘dose’ or number of transplanted islet cells would be the most beneficial to people with type 1.

The researchers reported few side effects of the treatment and a significant reduction in hypoglycaemia unawareness in people with type 1 who received a transplant. People who received the treatment also reported an improvement in quality of life.

Islet encapsulation is a new way to protect transplanted islet cells in people with type 1 diabetes. The islet cells are encapsulated in a protective bubble that has tiny holes to let insulin out and glucose in (as shown in illustration). These holes are too small for the cells from the immune system to enter, so the islets are protected from both transplant rejection and the reaction that causes type 1 in the first place.

The promising results of this trial will allow the researchers to apply for approval to start a phase IIb trial. A phase IIb trial will allow the researchers to test their technology on a larger group of people to gather more data on how effective it is at restoring insulin production.

Maebh Kelly, Research Communication Officer at JDRF commented, ‘Islet encapsulation is a very exciting topic at the moment and the results of this trial are encouraging. However, this is an early phase trial and the number of people involved was low. Larger studies will now be carried out to determine just how effective it is’.

Today at the EASD annual meeting, JDRF held a joint symposium with the EASD on beta cells. During the session, Dr Simona Chera from the University of Geneva in Switzerland presented her research on alpha cells that can turn into beta cells.

Dr Chera and her team have found that in adult mice that have had type 1 diabetes for a long time, the alpha cells (that usually make glucagon) can turn into cells very much like beta cells, making insulin in response to changing glucose levels. The team began by monitoring the alpha cells after the beta cells had died and found that a long time after the loss of beta cells, some alpha cells began to turn into insulin producing cells.

Interestingly, Dr Chera reported that the changing of alpha cells into beta cells was only found in adult mice. While younger mice do also regenerate new beta cells after the development of type 1, they do not come from alpha cells. In fact the team found that regenerated beta cells in younger mice came from less specialised pancreatic cells in the same way that beta cells are normally made. 

In the same session, Dr Patrick Collombat from INSERM in France presented his work that found that the differentiation of alpha cells into beta cells is caused by a protein called Pax4. He found that altering the levels of Pax4 in mice caused more beta cells to develop.

Maebh Kelly, Research Communication Officer at JDRF commented: 'Alpha cells are found next to beta cells in the islets of the pancreas, but they are not usually destroyed in type 1 diabetes. Understanding the relationship between alpha cells and beta cells may help scientists find new ways to help the body to produce more beta cells.'

This week you may have seen reports in the media that the number of cases of diabetes in the UK is expected to reach 4.4 million by 2020.

The media focuses primarily on the increase of type 2 diabetes. However, the incidence of type 1 diabetes is also rising, and this cannot be halted by lifestyle factors such as changes to diet or exercise. There is currently no way to cure or prevent the condition.

Our report Facing Type 1 Diabetes highlighted that in 2010/11 the direct and indirect cost of type 1 diabetes to the UK was £1.9 billion. Incidence of type 1 diabetes is growing at about four per cent each year, and the report estimated that 650,000 people in the UK will live with the condition by 2036. This could cost the UK £4.2 billion each year, and will continue to rise until we find the cure.

JDRF exists to fund the world-class research that is needed to cure, treat and prevent type 1 diabetes. We believe that the only way to reduce the cost burden of the condition is to invest in research to find the cure – find out how you can get involved.

Over the past few weeks JDRF has held three fantastic Walk to Cure Diabetes events, raising over £200,000 so far to support research into the cure. This Sunday is the final Walk to Cure Diabetes at Victoria Park, London – don't miss your final chance this year to step out for the cure.

Rushanara Ali, MP for Bethnal Green and Bow and Shadow International Development Minister, will be kick starting this year’s Walk to Cure Diabetes London at Victoria Park. There will be a 5km walk and a 10km run, as well as a shorter walk that’s perfect for little legs and pushchairs. This year is also the first year when the Walk Village will showcase stalls selling creative crafts, along with bouncy castles, face painting and refreshments. And don't forget your (and Rufus') fancy dress outfits - this year's theme is Teddy Bears' Picnic.

To get the crowd pumped up warm up acts will be provided by Fit for Sport, the UK’s leading healthy lifestyle activities provider plus instructor Stephanie Fanning will be doing some zumba moves.

Dean Horridge, CEO-Founder of Fit for Sport, will be supporting the cause. Dean is an ex-PE teacher at a prep school in Kensington, and knows first-hand about type 1 diabetes having been diagnosed with the life-threatening condition in 2001. He was fully aware of the symptoms, as his grandmother, father and his twin brother, plus Dean’s two brothers all have type 1. Dean manages his diabetes through an insulin pump which he has had for the past six years.

 Dean told us:

'Having type 1 myself, I wanted to support JDRF as it’s a great charity which is passionate about finding a cure. I try to manage my type 1 as best as I can, as I’ve seen first-hand what happens if you don’t - my father lost his life due to complications and bad management of the condition. I am a strong believer that you should control your type 1, instead of it controlling you.It’s not the end of life - it can be managed with education, awareness and individual/family commitment.'

New Cross resident and Haberdasher Aske High School pupil Eleanor Lotsu (pictured), 12, will be taking part in this year’s Walk. She was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when she was seven years old and is the only one in her family to have the life-threatening condition. Eleanor will be joined by mum Louise Shepherd, who said:

'Eleanor can sometimes find coping with type 1 diabetes difficult, but she refuses to let it get in the way of her enjoying life to the full and being able to do what she and every other teenager girl wants to.'

There is still time to step out for the cure at Victoria Park this Sunday - register now. You can also register on the day - click here to download our information pack with maps, schedule and information about the day.

Nearly 500 dedicated fundraisers took part in Walk to Cure Diabetes South at Manor Farm Country Park, on the 30 September. JDRF would like to thank all the participants and supporters who dedicated their time and made it such a fantastic day. The Walk has generated £20,000 so far which will go towards vital research to help JDRF one day find a cure for type 1 diabetes.

The Walk attracted many family walkers from near and far, including Southampton residents Chris and Sam O’Donnell from Sholing who took part, along with sons Connor, 7, and Kian, 5 (pictured). They have first-hand experience of type 1 diabetes, as Kian was diagnosed just last year. His auntie, Jodie, also has the life-threatening condition and was diagnosed 11 years ago aged six years old.

Sam said:

'It was ironic that at last year’s Walk we were doing it on behalf of Jodie and literally a few weeks later Kian was diagnosed. We thoroughly enjoyed the Walk and it was great to see so many people there all raising awareness and money for such a great cause. We have taken part in the Walk several times and are delighted that we can do our bit to help JDRF to hopefully one day find a cure for both Jodie and Kian, plus all the other 400,000 people in the country living with type 1.'

Nicole Gerrard, Southampton Fundraiser for JDRF said:

'We would like to thank each and every one of you who took part in this year’s event and we hope everyone enjoyed it as much as we did. Without our supporters, it really wouldn’t be possible to do what we do best. We would like to thank our main sponsor Ford for their involvement and generosity as it has been invaluable and our media sponsors the Southern Daily Echo and Hampshire Chronicle for their support.'

The Southampton event was part of a series of Walks including Walk to Cure Diabetes Scotland in Aberdeen on 16 September and Walk to Cure Diabetes Midlands at Drayton Manor Theme Park on 30 September. The final event will be Walk to Cure Diabetes London, taking place at Victoria Park on 7 October.

Over 700 dedicated fundraisers took part in Walk to Cure Diabetes at Drayton Manor Theme Park on Sunday. JDRF would like thank all the participants and supporters who dedicated their time and made it such a fantastic day. The Walk has generated £30,000 so far which will go towards vital research to help JDRF one day find the cure for type 1 diabetes.

This year's Walk was the thirteenth annual Walk to Cure Diabetes event in the area. It attracted many family walkers from near and far, including Derby residents Carly and Paul Wheeler who took part along with 25 others friends and family members ranging from 2 months to 56 year olds (pictured). Their four year old son, Finlay (Finn) was diagnosed only this year in April and is one of 29,000 children in the UK to live with type 1.

Carly said:

'We thoroughly enjoyed the Walk and it was great to see so many people there all raising awareness and money for such a great cause. We have taken part in the Walk several times and are delighted that we can do our bit to help JDRF to hopefully one day fine a cure for Finn and all the other 400,000 people in the country living with type 1.'

Tamworth residents Lisa and Nick Warren-Brownhill also came along with their four year old daughter, Jaici, who was diagnosed with type 1 in June 2011. Tamworth MP Chris Pincher showed his support by attending the event. In his speech he remarked:

'I was honored to open JDRF’s Walk to Cure Diabetes at Drayton Manor Theme Park on Sunday. I know that JDRF works hard to tackle type 1 diabetes, an illness which is both life-threatening and life-long. The funds raised will go towards funding research to help treat, prevent and hopefully cure type 1 diabetes.'

The Southampton event was part of a series of Walks including Walk to Cure Diabetes Scotland in Aberdeen on 16 September and Walk to Cure Diabetes South in Southampton on 30 September. The final event will be Walk to Cure Diabetes London, taking place at Victoria Park on 7 October.

We have just learnt of a fantastic success story in Scotland regarding twelve patients who have been cured of ‘hypos’, thanks to the Scottish islet transplant programme.

Eighteen months on from the first operation, the Scottish National Pancreatic Islet Transplant Programme has just announced that it has carried out 18 islet infusions, improving the lives of 12 people with ‘brittle’ type 1 diabetes.

Brittle diabetes is where people with the condition move very quickly between very high glucose levels and very low levels, usually with no warning. The success of the Scottish programme is brilliant news, as the lives of these 12 people will have been transformed.

JDRF funding enabled a team based in Edmonton, Canada, to define the conditions for a successful islet transplant. Since then, more than 800 islet transplants have happened worldwide. The NHS was the first healthcare organisation in the world to adopt islet transplants as a proven treatment (specifically for brittle diabetes), so the success of the Scottish transplant centre is a great testament to the progress that has been made from the early days of JDRF’s funding in this field.

An islet transplant involves preparing islets from a deceased donor's pancreas, so that they can be given to someone with type 1. The islets are then injected into the large blood vessel that feeds the liver of the person with type 1. To be able to give someone with type 1 the number of islets needed to control their blood glucose levels often requires two separate infusions. This is why in Scotland, six of the patients have undergone two operations, while six patients have had a single infusion of cells. It’s great news that the Scottish National Pancreatic Islet Transplant Programme has reported that all of these patients are now able to recognise when their blood glucose level drops and rarely experience low levels.

The majority of patients now only require tiny amounts of regular insulin and some do not require insulin at all.

Rachel Connor Head of Research Communication at JDRF commented:

‘While islets transplants are not a cure for type 1, because they do not tackle the underlying autoimmune reaction that causes the condition, they can transform the lives of people with very hard to control type 1 diabetes. The islet transplant programme is vital in paving the way for other cell based therapies for the condition, which may be a cornerstone of the eventual cure for type 1 diabetes.'

Professor James Shaw, Islet Transplant Lead for Newcastle and member of JDRF Scientific Advisory Committee said:

'It is wonderful to see how quickly the national islet transplant programme in Scotland has progressed from government commissioning to a series of successful clinical transplants. The Scottish programme is part of a clinical service available to people throughout the UK - with type 1 diabetes complicated by life-threatening hypoglycaemia despite best conventional management. This usually but not always includes a trial of insulin pump therapy. In addition to Edinburgh, there are specialist islet transplant centres in Bristol, London (King's College and Royal Free Hospital), Oxford, Manchester and Newcastle.'

Read the Scottish Government media release here.

Success of the Walk to Cure Diabetes Scotland event yesterday

Approximately 1,000 people came along to the Walk to Cure Diabetes in Scotland yesterday and JDRF would like to say a big thank you to all participants and supporters.

Unfortunately, the rain came down around lunchtime, but this didn’t deter our determined  supporters, and we would like to thank each and every one of you for your participation in the 10th annual Scotland Walk.

We would like to say a special thank you to the Morris family from Aberdeen, who took part along with over 170 relatives and friends.

 Both mother Lauren, and daughter Amy have been diagnosed with type 1, and ‘Team Amy’ were out in force, helping to raise awareness for type 1 and vital funds for JDRF.

We would also like to say a big thank you to Leo Koot and the staff at Taqa Bratani, for their wonderful support and fantastic fundraising efforts.   

We will have photos and more information soon, and are looking forward to the the Walk to Cure Midlands on the 30 September, South on the 30 September and London on the 7 October. 

Don't just talk the talk, Walk the Walk. Join JDRF's Walk to Cure Diabetes and help us take one step closer to the cure! Visit www.jdrf.org.uk/walk to register. We'd love to see you at one of these events.

We have just found out that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is asking people with diabetes using Hypurin Porcine Isophane insulin cartridges to check their medication after a packaging error recently came to light.

The issue occurred when a carton for cartridges of intermediate acting Hypurin PorcineIsophane Insulin 100 IU/ml got into the production line for the short acting Hypurin PorcineNeutral Insulin 100IU/ml. This could effectively mean a patient experiences the insulin wearing off earlier than expected.

While the manufacturer believes it is highly unlikely there are any other such packs in the supply chain, patients and pharmacists are being asked to check their cartons and the MHRA has issued a drug alert following a precautionary recall by the manufacturer.

The issue relates to one batch with the batch number PL40147.

Gerald Heddell, MHRA Director of Inspection, Enforcement and Standards said: "It isimportant that patients continue to administer their insulin as required. Patients with anyquestions or concerns should contact their GP or pharmacist as soon as possible. Aninvestigation has taken place and action has been taken to rectify the issue."

The drug alert can be viewed here.

JDRF T1 Youth Ambassadors showed their Olympic spirit at the first ever East of England Paediatric Games last Wednesday. Organised by Kate Wilson and Claire Pesterfield from Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, the event was held at the impressive Cambridge University Athletics Ground.

Alongside Team JDRF, over 250 under 16s represented teams from paediatric diabetes clinics across the East region. Activities included the 100m and 200m sprint, welly wanging, dodgeball and the long jump.

A courageous effort was made by Team JDRF, only narrowly missing out on a trophy, despite Ryan Midgeley’s winning turn at the bleep test, a test of endurance where runners compete to keep pace with the ‘bleep’. Highlights included a rain-soaked 400m relay and a photo finish between Rufus, JDRF’s infamous mascot, and Medtronic’s Lenny the Lion in the mascot race.

JDRF Community Relationship Manager, Simon Mitchell, said:

'A fantastic day was had by everyone, despite the unpredictable British weather, and I can’t thank the organisers and competitors enough. It was great to be part of Team JDRF and see our T1 Youth Ambassadors showing that type 1 diabetes does not stop you from being a great athlete. We would like to thank them for flying the flag for JDRF and type 1 and congratulate them for doing so well in the various activities.'

If you are interested in getting involved in sport and other activities visit the JDRF event pages to find your nearest event.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has announced that qualified pilots and air traffic controllers with diabetes treated with insulin and other medications can carry out full operation duties, including flying commercial aircraft. The decision has been welcomed by Diabetes UK, JDRF and the group Pilots with Diabetes.

Licensed pilots and air traffic controllers who have diabetes will need to demonstrate good overall control of the condition before gaining medical qualifications to fly. Pilots with diabetes have already been able to fly recreationally since 2002 but the new policy allows full flying privileges once medical requirements are met.

 Karen Addington, Chief Executive of JDRF said:  

'Over recent years significant advances have been made with regard to controlling type 1 diabetes and its associated complications, which have helped make the condition more manageable. The CAA has recognised this, and subject to rigorous monitoring and testing regimes, personnel will now be able to carry out their duties unrestricted.' 

Pilots With Diabetes formed in 2007 to promote flying with insulin treated diabetes. Member Douglas Cairns, former RAF pilot instructor and holder of 12 aviation speed records, commented:

'The UK is now understood to be the second country in the world to enable commercial flying with diabetes after Canada and is the only country to enable both commercial flying and full private flying privileges. There have been positive developments for recreational flying with diabetes already over the last 10 years in the UK. It is now a very positive step for pilots with diabetes, and indeed people with diabetes, to see the introduction of both commercial and full private flying opportunities here in the UK.' 

Guidance information will shortly be issued by the CAA to pilots and air traffic controllers setting out the new procedures. This includes the details of operational restrictions and in-flight testing regimes.

UK Diabetes Formation Flight

The announcement coincides with the UK Diabetes Formation Flight to be led by Douglas this Saturday (1 September). Six pilots from Pilots With Diabetes will take off from Nottingham Airport and aim to set a new national formation speed record from Derby to Southampton. The pilots all have insulin treated diabetes and have all either lost professional flying careers on diagnosis of diabetes or previously had restrictions applied to flying activities or career ambitions

The pilots will fly six aircraft in the form of a 'D' for almost two hours, passing over six villages and towns whose first letters will sequentially spell the word “DIABETES” from start to finish, finally landing at Goodwood (Chichester) Airport. The villages and towns that spell diabetes are: Derby, Ibstock, Ashton Flameville (near Hinckley), Buckingham, Emmington (hamlet near Thame), Twyford, Earley (by Reading), Southampton (Airport).

The pilots, all National Private Pilot Licence Holders, include:

• Douglas Cairn, UK Diabetes Formation Flight organiser and former RAF pilot instructor. Holder of 12 aviation speed records including a flight to the North Pole from Alaska in 2011, and co-ordinator of Flying With Diabetes.
• Damian Fessey,a fellow-founder member of Pilots With Diabetes and private pilot for 10 years. 
• George Duncan, a balloonist world record holder and former British Airways pilot. 
• Karl Beetson, joint aviation national speed record holder of Around Britain’s Coastline.
• Matt Ponsford, a private pilot since 2010. 
• James D’Arcy, joint holder of a speed record to land in all 48 contiguous states of the USA and winner of London to Sydney air race in 2001.

Everyone at JDRF wishes Douglas and the team the best of luck with their record attempt on Saturday.

Researchers at University of California, San Diego have identified cells in the pancreas that show all the markers of stem cells.

For the first time, the team have identified stem cells in the human pancreas. The cells had a marker called SSEA4 on their surface which is found only in stem cells. When the cells were grown in a lab and given certain chemical signals, they no longer showed SSEA4, as they turned into more specialised pancreatic cells such as those that make hormones like insulin.

The stem cells were not found in islets but instead were found in the pancreatic duct, which links the pancreas to the gut. It has long been thought that there are stem cells in the pancreas but this is the first time cells with the specific marker SSEA4 have been found.

Stem cells are primitive cells that can be turned into other more specialised cells under the right conditions. Scientists think that these cells could be coaxed into becoming insulin-producing beta cells if the right signals are found.

Identifying markers for pancreatic stem cells means that in the future, it will be easier to specifically pull out the stem cells from a sample with many different cell types in it.  This will help studies that aim to grow pancreatic stem cells and develop ways to turn them into beta cells.

Maebh Kelly, Research Communication Officer at JDRF said, ‘The identification of stem cells in the pancreas opens up new avenues for researchers trying to cure type 1. This study helps us understand how the pancreas makes new cells.'

When Harry's sister Emily was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, Harry decided to show some sibling support and undertake a 20 mile sponsored cycle ride to raise money for JDRF. At the tender age of nine years old, Harry Watson from Ewell in Surrey has already been bitten by the fundraising bug.

Harry’s cycling challenge started at Ranmore in Surrey, and headed out along the famous ZIG ZAG route through Boxhill (which has recently been undertaken by the GB cyclist team) and finally finished back in Ewell. Harry finished his challenge in an impressive 2 hours and 40 minutes.

To add to the money raised from his sponsored cycle ride, Harry also organised stalls on his driveway at home, and held a bake sale and a 'guess the number of sweet in a jar' competition.

JDRF would like to say a big thank you to Harry for raising an impressive £539. He is a brother to be proud of, and we really appreciate Harry’s support.

Jack Griffiths, 11, has matched the success of the London 2012 Olympics with his own fundraising gold. When Jack was selected as a torchbearer for Droitwich Spa, he told us that he planned to share his experience with as many people as possible and raise funds for JDRF along the way. He hasn't disappointed, and has sent us photos from some of the local events he has been attending.

On Sunday 5 August, the Judo team from Bad Ems, Germany (Droitwich Spa’s twin town) paid a visit to Droitwich Spa Judo Club while they were in the UK to see the Olympic Judo competition. Jack is a keen member of the Droitwich Spa Judo Club, and jumped at the opportunity to bring his Olympic torch for some photo opportunities. The two clubs enjoyed a joint judo training session, and raised £22 towards Jack's fundraising total.

A few days later, Jack brought his torch along to a mini Olympics event being held at Westmead Care Home in Droitwich. His appearance lit up the sport-themed garden party, where residents took part in a range of events such as the egg and spoon race, bean bag throwing, boules and a relay. Jack raised another £35 for JDRF, and was featured in his local newspaper.

Jack’s week of fundraising did not end there, and on Friday he was at Lloyds TSB in Droitwich with his Olympic torch. Jack spoke about life with type 1 diabetes and lucky customers had their photo taken with the torch, raising nearly £50 towards his goal.

Jack was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when he was three years old, and has raised a magnificent £4,000 for JDRF and Diabetes UK over the years through bake sales, raffles and car boot sales. He will be raising as much money as possible before he takes part in the JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes Midlands on 30 September at Drayton Manor Theme Park.

Jack’s experience as a London 2012 Olympic torchbearer was featured in the ‘T1 in 10’ section of issue 12 of the T1 Kids magazine. He told us: ‘The run was exciting but very scary because so many people were watching – I was afraid I might trip over! When I finished I just felt happy and relieved. I was also very proud to run alongside my dad in such a once in a lifetime opportunity.’

To receive your copy of T1 Kids magazine, sign up to the mailing list. 

Hypoglycaemia, or a ‘hypo’, occurs when the blood glucose level of people with diabetes drops too low. If left untreated, a hypo can eventually lead to unconsciousness and, in extreme cases, may even prove fatal.

To help bring attention to this serious but common complication of diabetes, the first ever national ‘Hypo Awareness Week’ will be taking place next week, from 13-19 August 2012.

JDRF is showing its support for the NHS campaign by highlighting the ground breaking research that it is funding to help reduce the impact of hypoglycaemia.

Karen Addington, Chief Executive of JDRF, said: “Hypoglycaemia is one of the most common and potentially severe side effects of insulin therapy. As the world’s leading charitable funder of type 1 diabetes research we are currently leading on worldwide research aimed at reducing the impact of hypoglycaemia and we are working towards reducing and even, one day, eliminating hypos.”

Artifical pancreas

In the UK, JDRF is funding a large research project at the University of Cambridge to develop a ‘closed loop’ artificial pancreas that can control blood glucose levels without much input from the user. Consisting of a continuous glucose monitor, an insulin pump and a computer algorithm (as pictured), measurements are taken from the monitor which tell the pump when it needs to administer insulin.

The initial trials of this new device have been extremely positive, showing that the device can keep a tighter control on glucose levels than pump therapy alone and almost eliminate overnight hypos. The Cambridge research team has just begun a new trial of the artificial pancreas in outpatient volunteers, to see if it works as well in day to day life.

Hypo unawareness

With JDRF funding, researchers at the University of Dundee in Scotland are also progressing some exciting research which investigates how the brain responds to hypos. Previous studies have shown that some people with type 1 gradually lose the ability to sense hypos and no longer experience the warning symptoms to alert them to hypos. Thisis called ‘hypo unawareness’ and can result in more severe episodes. Researchers are developing drug therapies with support from JDRF which may in time be able to reduce and even eliminate both of these factors.

Glucose-responsive insulin

Last year JDRF launched a competition among researchers to develop glucose-responsive insulin, which is a new form of insulin that would work only when the body needs it, ideally only being administered once a day and remaining inactive in the blood until glucose levels are high. When glucose levels became high the exact amount of insulin needed to bring blood glucose levels back down would then be activated, therefore eliminating the risk of hypos. The JDRF prize money on offer will help the winning team make this idea a reality.

Karen said: “Only research will find the cure for type 1 diabetes and we exist to fund this research. We have some extremely exciting global research studies progressing with our research partners and are very happy to support the NHS’s Hypo Awareness Week.”

Ten- year-old Kaye Sparrow from Billinge, Wigan, with type 1 diabetes has received two prestigious awards for being an inspiration to other young people and in recognition of her fundraising efforts for JDRF.

Kaye is also our Guest Editor for the latest T1 magazine. If you are not already on the mailing list for your child, you can sign up here. 

Alternatively if your child wants to help raise awareness then signed up to be a T1 Youth Ambassador.  See the JDRFT1 website for more information. 

Brooke Wilkinson, who has type 1 and was selected as an olympic torch bearer, made a guest appearance at The Brook, Portswood, Southampton last Saturday with her olympic torch bearing uniform and torch.

Her dad, Mark, has a well known local band 'Rufus Stone' who plays there.

Brooke and her dad raised over £300 for JDRF and Mark has offered the services of his band to JDRF for future fundraising.

Thanks so much Brooke and Mark!

Brooke pictured here with her friends on the day of her leg of the Olympic Torch Relay. 

Young people with type 1 diabetes and their families came together on Saturday in Trowbridge, Wiltshire to learn about type 1 and take part in a fun day of fundraising for JDRF.

The day was organised by the family of Cerys Blake (pictured). Cerys has type 1 diabetes, and is a T1 Youth Ambassador for JDRF.

The event welcomed local residents and businesses with people travelling to join in the fun on the day from Swindon, Bristol, the New Forest, Devon and Wales.

The line-up included the hugely popular Buttons the Clown, glitter tattoos, face painting, outdoor play facilities, a bouncy castle, a grand raffle and an amazing band called Hot Flex!

This fun filled family event raised £1,800 for JDRF, which will help us to continue to support research into type 1 diabetes.

Thanks so much to Cerys and her mum Donna for continuing to support us. To view photos from the day, visit Cerys and Donna’s Facebook page.

If you would like to fundraise in your area, let us know so we can support you.

This Sunday, Paul Bowyer will set off on an epic challenge to run five marathons in five days.

He came up with the idea last summer, while he and his brother were enjoying a few drinks. Paul wanted a way to raise money for some of the charities that supported his niece Georgie when she was diagnosed with leukaemia in July last year, and his nephew Charlie when he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2008.

Rather than take part in a more traditional charity event, Paul has decided to run from Alder Hey Children's Hospital in Liverpool (where Charlie was diagnosed with type 1) to Birmingham Children's Hospital (where Georgia was diagnosed with leukaemia). This will mean running five marathons in five days, from Sunday 22 - Thursday 26 July 2012.

Paul told us:

'This is a very special, poignant run to mark two key events in my niece and nephew's short lives so far. My aim is to reach the finish line each day, regardless of time. I want to raise as much money as possible for my three chosen charities - JDRF, CLIC Sargent and Ronald McDonald House. Throughout everything, Charlie has been extremely brave and taken everything type 1 diabetes has brought him in his stride. He does not allow this condition to get in the way of doing the things his friends do and he is enjoying school which he started in September 2011.'

Paul is hoping for people to join him for some or all of the run, and a number of people are already planning on walking or cycling with him along parts of the route.

So far, Paul has raised £5,000 in total, and £1,500 for JDRF. Visit Paul's website to find out more, get in touch or sponsor Paul.

JDRF is helping a specialised healthcare market research agency who are looking for volunteers who were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 18 or over and within the last six years, to take part in market research in Nottingham. If you think you fit the bill, and are available on Wednesday 18 July, we would love to hear from you. 

Using an indepth interview process we hope to learn about the experiences of a newly diagnosed adult with type 1 diabetes. This will include aspects of your healthcare pathway and lifestyle. 

The research interviews will be at the Talkback studios in Nottingham and should take about one hour. The interview will be recorded. 

If you are interested or want more information, please contact Sharon Hayes on 0800 0196156, who will carry out a short screening interview to check you are suitable for the research project. 

When Jenny Potter’s 4 year old son Harry (pictured at front) was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2010, Jenny began raising money to help JDRF find the cure. Now she is taking her fundraising to the next level, setting herself a target to raise £1000 a year.

Jenny plans to use her photography skills to raise this amount. She is going to photograph children and adults with type 1, and donate sales of the images to JDRF. She is also looking into a photography exhibition and producing a book of photos of type 1 children.

Her first photo shoot took place on 27 May 2012 in Bristol (pictured). Jenny photographed children with type 1 diabetes individually, in groups and with siblings. The photos were taken for free, but are being sold online with proceeds going to JDRF via Jenny’s Just Giving page.

Jenny is currently contacting companies to see if they can donate venue space for exhibitions, helping to keep costs down. Jenny is hoping to do a photo shoot every month in different parts of the UK to get her photography project off the ground.

To view images from Jenny’s first photo shoot, visit her website at www.jennypotter.com, and click on ‘Current clients’, ‘Client viewing’ and ‘Children with type 1 diabetes.’

 If you would like to get involved with the photography project, get in touch with Jenny through her website. To help Jenny with her fundraising, visit her JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/jennypotterphotography 

Leeds office workers donned their cycling shorts to raise over £2,500 for JDRF in the Spin to Cure Diabetes on Thursday 28 June. JDRF was thrilled that so many workers took on the challenge and spent their lunch hour spinning to raise awareness and vital funds to support type 1 diabetes research.

Five teams of five pushed their bodies to the limit over eight-minute interval sprints on static Watt bikes at Wellington Place, Leeds. Teams included staff from Leeds-based KPMG, Eversheds, Addleshaw Goddard, RG Group and Pure Gym.

The fastest team was Eversheds who achieved a distance of 26,458 metres in 40 minutes. Steve Simkins from KPMG was crowned the ‘King of Spin’, covering 5,677 metres and Lenka Benesova from Pure Gym was crowned the ‘Queen of Spin’ with a distance of 5,056 metres (both pictured left).

Macquarie Group worked with JDRF to host the fourth series of bike-a-thons in London, Birmingham, Bristol and Leeds, with Nuffield Heath supporting the event as Fitness Partner. Bikes were provided by TEAMcycles.

Chris Normington, JDRF’s Development Manager for the North, said: 'There was a fantastic atmosphere at the event, with participants cycling hard, the crowd roaring their encouragement and teams cheering each other on to get the best time of the day. We believe the Leeds event will have raised more than £2500, so this is a marvellous achievement and well done to all involved.'

David Fass, CEO of Macquarie Group EMEA, said: 'Macquarie is proud to be a key supporter of JDRF in the UK and we were delighted with everyone’s efforts and would like to say a huge thank you for taking part. Events like this really help JDRF raise the profile of type 1 and we will continue to assist JDRF in its important work for people with type 1 diabetes and their families.'

Visit www.spintocurediabetes.org.uk for further information.

Pupils from Belfast Model School for Girls took part in a walk to cure at their school to raise a fantastic £600 for JDRF.

The girls paid £2 to take part and got extra sponsorship from friends and family.

Teacher Julie Allen said:

“Due to the bad weather on Friday, we set up a circuit in our sports hall for the pupils to walk around. This turned out quite well as we were able to play music and the pupils really enjoyed themselves. I downloaded a video from YouTube called Blake’s Battle which is about a young boy with type 1 diabetes. I sent this to staff and they showed it to their classes a week before the walk to encourage pupils to take part.

We were delighted to raise awareness and such an amount of money towards the cure for type 1 diabetes.”

Last night at ART ANTIQUES LONDON Party in the Park over £460,000 was raised for JDRF, who were the sole charity beneficiary. 

The New York pop stars Scissor Sisters made an exclusive intimate appearance at the dinner event with an acoustic set from Jake Shears and Babydaddy (pictured left with Karen Addington, JDRF Chief Executive). 

Auction prizes included a private performance by global music stars Florence + the Machine, a once in a lifetime, personalised week at The Masters 2013 for two people, and a sensational weeks stay for two people on the Serengeti National Park with a three night privately guided safari.  
JDRF is indebted to the Scissor Sisters who took time out from an incredibly busy schedule to come and support JDRF’s search to find the cure for type 1 diabetes. We are also immensely grateful to all those people who supported the event and bid for the auction items on the evening. 

This is a fabulous sum to raise which will support research to cure, treat and prevent type 1 diabetes. We truly feel honoured to have been chosen to be involved in this prestigious event. 

Photos from the night can be viewed on our Flickr site here.

Phil Godfrey, 43 from Melton, is planning to swim the length of the 5.5 mile long Coniston Water to raise money for JDRF.

Phil, who will be joined by his friend Mark Sallinger, will be swimming the Cumbrian lake in July with an aim of raising £2,000.

Phil’s son Ben, who is now eight, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when he was two years old. Phil said "Should Ben's blood sugar levels go too low, he could pass out or in the worst instance, fall into a coma.

‘If his levels run consistently high, he runs the risk of developing complications such as blindness, kidney disease and heart disease, amongst others.’

Commenting on his challenge Phil said ‘A 5.5 mile swim in open water will be a big ask but we are training hard. We will be in wet suits and we will have a support boat with us just in case.’

To sponsor Phil and Mark visit:

www.justgiving.com/PhilandMarkConistonSwim

Londoners raise money for JDRF

London office workers recently donned their cycling shorts to raise over £20,000 forJDRF. The ‘Spin to Cure Diabetes’ event challenged 33 teams of five to push their bodies to the limit over eight-minute interval sprints on static Watt bikes outside the Royal Exchange, London.

JDRF challenged Londoners to spend their lunch hour spinning to raise awareness and vital funding for type 1 diabetes research and were thrilled by the high uptake. Most competitors have either had a personal experience of type 1 diabetes or simply relished the competitive element of the event.

Teams included staff from Ascot Underwriting, Schroders, The Royal Bank of Scotland, Royal London Asset Management and Macquarie Group, the principal national supporter of the Spin to Cure Diabetes.

Macquarie Group worked with JDRF to host the fourth series of bike-a-thons in London,Birmingham, Bristol, and Leeds this summer, with Nuffield Heath supporting the event asFitness Partner. BOOM! Cycle, providers of indoor cycling classes, mceed the London event and bikes were provided by TEAMcycles.

The fastest team from Macquarie, ‘Agenor’s Army’, achieved a distance of 29,069 metres in forty minutes. Simon Coles from AON Benfield was crowned the ‘King of Spin’,covering 6,197 metres in eight minutes and Charlotte Peat from Schroders was crowned the ‘Queen of Spin’ with a distance of 5,042 metres.

Money raised by the event will help JDRF continue to fund important research needed to find the cure for type 1 diabetes and its complications. Around 400,000 people in the UK have type 1 diabetes, including 26,000 children and incidences of the condition are increasing at an alarming rate each year, particularly in children under five.Only research will find the cure and all money raised will bring JDRF one step closer to its goal of finding the cure for type 1 diabetes.

Caroline Hellicar, JDRF’s Director of Fundraising, said: “There was a fantastic atmosphere at the event, with participants cycling hard, the crowd roaring their encouragement and teams cheering each other on to get the best time of the day. We believe the London event will have raised more than £20,000, so this is a marvellous achievement and well done to all involved”.

David Fass, CEO, Macquarie Group, EMEA said: "Macquarie is proud to be a key supporter of JDRF in the UK and we were delighted when the Macquarie team triumphed, coming first against some incredibly strong competition. Events like this really help JDRF raise the profile of type 1 and we will continue to assist the Foundation in its important work for people with type 1 diabetes and their families.”

Visit www.spintocurediabetes.org.uk for further information.

We are delighted to announce that Ellys Manor House in Great Ponton, Lincolnshire has chosen JDRF to receive donations from future events at the property.

We want to thank the owners of Ellys Manor House for choosing JDRF and supporting our mission to cure, treat and prevent type 1 diabetes. 

Ellys Manor House is a unique and magical Tudor wool merchant’s house, built in the Flemish style that features a scheme of early 16th century wall paintings. It's said to be the most complete, extensive and important domestic decoration of this date in the country.

The house holds cultural events such as concerts throughout the year and the sale of programmes on event nights will be donated to JDRF.

Please visit www.ellysmanorhouse.com to view upcoming events or email ellysmanor@btinternet.com

The ART ANTIQUES LONDON Party in the Park auction site is now open. Whether or not you will be attending the event on 12 June, this is your ideal opportunity to pledge your support for JDRF. We are truly delighted with the auction items on offer, with all proceeds helping to support our vital research into type 1 diabetes. 

Auction prizes include a private performance for up to twenty five guests by global music stars Florence + the Machine and other prize highlights include a sensational weeks stay for two people on the Serengeti National Park with a three night privately guided safari.

Participants can also bid for highly sought after tickets to the Ladies’ Final on Centre Court, Wimbledon, scheduled for Saturday 7 July and there is also the opportunity to bid for a chance to stay in a stunning, exquisite St Tropez Villa set in its own private 35 acres of grounds overlooking the Mediterranean, on the ‘right’ side of town.  

Or, how would you like a week’s stay for up to eight people in a fully catered, beautifully appointed private chalet, in the heart of the Les Tres Valley which boasts more than 600 km of ski trails, in the exclusive Cospillot enclave of Courchevel, France.

And, for all you golfers out there, how about a phenomenal, jaw dropping once in a lifetime trip for two people at the Masters in Augusta. Not only do you get tickets to the Wednesday Masters Practice Round and all Tournament Days. You can also revel in a round of golf at the prestigious Sage Valley Golf Course, with Rosie Jones, the former US Solheim Cup Captain, and 13-time winner on the LPGA Tour. You will have the pleasure of meeting three of golf’s greatest legends, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer. Every evening you will be treated to meals with your host Wayne Player in his home, giving you the opportunity to meet other guests and listen to captivating stories from the son of one of the world’s greatest golfers.

Another auction prize on offer is PGA Kent Open Championship Pro-Am entry for three golfers on 14 August 2012, which includes all meals and a round of golf with a top PGA Professional from the South of England.  

How to bid

Bidding for these ‘money can’t buy’ prizes couldn’t be easier – simply browse through the lots and follow the links. The auction will be held at the dinner at Party in the Park on Tuesday 12 June and online bidding is open until midnight on Sunday 10 June.

If you are not attending the dinner, and are the highest online bidder when the auction closes – we will contact you to make arrangements for bidding on the night.

For further information and to see in full all of the auction prizes on offer please visit: auction.jdrf.org.uk

If you want to be here on the night, there are still tickets available, please see ART ANTIQUES LONDON Party in the Park page for more details. 

If you're looking for a new picture to decorate your wall, then look no further.  A photographer based in Cardiff has decided to use his talent to raise funds for JDRF. Tony Batey, whose partner’s son has type 1 diabetes, has decided to donate £10 from each sale of his limited edition print run of the Wales Millennium Stadium to JDRF, and a further £500 if all copies of this limited print sell.

"I’m releasing a limited run of 50 prints of my photograph of the home of Welsh rugby, The Millennium Stadium, which played host to the 1999 Rugby World Cup, in aid of my chosen charity JDRF.”

The 50 prints (25 colour, and 25 black and white) each measuring at 18” x 12” come mounted and framed in your choice of ‘studio black’ or ‘natural wood’ frame, and are retailing at a special price of £75 each to include postage and packing, which is a saving of £50 compared to other images on Tony’s website.

“£10 of the profits on each print goes directly to JDRF, a total donation of £500 if all prints are sold. I’ve also promised JDRF that should all 50 prints sell, I’ll double the donation myself, bringing the total to £1,000 for this very worthy cause.”

To order your framed limited edition photograph of the Millennium Stadium, and to help Tony achieve his fundraising target of £1,000 for JDRF, visit Tony Batey’s website

Then make sure you apply for the pre-qualification trials for the 2012 Medtronic Junior Cup at Wembley Stadium on Friday 29 June with the opportunity to then represent your country at the Junior Cup in Switzerland!

Players will be selected by FA coaches at a pre-qualification trial day to be held next to the world games' spiritual home – Wembley Stadium. It doesn’t really get much better than this does it?!

If you believe you have what it takes to represent your country in this fantastic football tournament, where you will be up against other teams from the U.S., Germany, Slovenia, Italy and many others apply for the trials today. You’ve got to be in it to win it. Deadline for your application is midnight 5 June.

The fun packed day will include skills sessions and mini matches which will be attended by Football Association coaches who will then decide who will be in the final squad, representing Queen and country overseas. Lucky participants will also benefit from an amazing Wembley Stadium Tour and a ‘Carb Counting made fun’ educational session.

The format for the day will be:

Date:  Friday 29 June

Time:  

10:00-13:00 - Trials

13:00 - Lunch
Educational Session: ‘Carb Counting made fun’ 

13:30 -  Wembley Stadium Tour  

Venue: The Power League Wembley Centre, Engineers Way, London HA9 OWS (adjacent to Wembley Stadium)

Free Car Parking

Please note that Medtronic will not cover travel, food or lodging expenses for the Wembley trials but costs will be met for those who are selected to travel to Lausanne in August. 

Interested?

Click to dowload the application form.  As there are only 55 places to be won for this event please make your application form stand out!

Please send completed application forms by post to:
Anna Brown
JDRF
19 Angel Gate
City Road
London 
EC1V 2PT 

Deadline is midnight 5 June.

Please read the terms and conditions

The child need to be between 8-12 years old at the time of pre-qualification trials and the Junior Cup even in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Dates of the tournament in Lausanne is 24-26 August 2012.

In addition, all applicants are eligible to be signed up as a JDRF T1 Youth Ambassador and eligible to be part of some upcoming and exciting events: www.jdrft1.org.uk/youthambassador

Any questions please contact Anna on 020 7713 2030 or email abrown@jdrf.org.uk 

For more information visit: 

www.juniorcup-diabetes.com

 www.facebook.com/pages/Junior-Cup-Diabetes/198471250217167?sk=info

JDRF is delighted to announce that it has been selected by The Professional Golfers’ Association (The PGA) South as their associate charity of the year for 2012.

JDRF and The PGA will be working together to raise awareness of type 1 diabetes, as well as encouraging members of The PGA to get involved with JDRF by taking on an exciting challenge or donating money. All funds raised will go towards supporting JDRF’s ground-breaking research to cure, treat and prevent type 1 diabetes.

Sam Smith, Secretary of The PGA South, said: “Our members are a fantastic international mix and JDRF is the perfect charitable partner for us with its international reach, yet local focus. It is perfectly aligned with our own approach to business and serving the golfing community. We look forward to raising awareness of type 1 diabetes and raising funds for JDRF to benefit all those living with this pernicious condition”.

The partnership kicked off on 18 May 2012 with the PGA’s first event of the season, The PGA Woosnam-Faldo Challenge Pro-Am. With more events due to be announced over the coming months, a particular highlight of the season will be the JDRF Pro-Am golf tournament. Taking place on 13 September 2012 at the beautiful Stoke Park, teams of amateur golfers will be joined on the course by top golf professionals from the UK and further afield for an unforgettable day's golf. The PGA has also donated a variety of exciting golfing and non-golfing opportunities to JDRF for auction prizes.

The partnership is backed by Robert Coles (pictured), a PGA Member and European Tour Professional: “I know what it's like to have type 1 diabetes - I have lived with it since I was diagnosed in 1998. As a professional golfer when I play the course I also play my type 1, but with type 1 I never get a rest day. That is why I am so delighted to ask you to join me in supporting JDRF along with The PGA in finding the cure for type 1 diabetes.” 

Click here to find out more about The PGA and JDRF partnership, and to find out about upcoming events.

A fun filled family orientated festival 

The Alresford Music Festival will be taking place this year on the 9 June at Arlebury Park, Alresford, Hampshire. Entering its third year the event will take the ‘community festival’ concept to another level, having been dreamed up by local Alresford resident Ken Veitch as an idea to raise money for local charities, with Ken teaming up with local artists and businesses to make the dream a reality.

Tapping into local contacts, the festival has slowly taken shape and, with just a few weeks to go, the team has grown to include eight dedicated volunteers and numerous professionals and companies hired for the day.

Ken is calling for local residents and music lovers from far and wide to come along and join in with this fun, family orientated event, which will showcase a diverse range of music styles from both established and emerging local talent, with profits going to charity, including JDRF. 

JDRF has been specifically chosen as Ken and his wife Alison have two sons who both live  with type 1 diabetes, so the condition has had a big influence on their lives. However, Ken and Alison are quick to point out that they have not allowed it to affect whatever their boys want to do, and both 20 year old Alexander and 15 year old Christian ski, snowboard, skateboard, and play football, amongst other things.

Ken said: “It has been a massive learning curve over the last three years but we now know how to create and put on this fabulous event efficiently. We now have a great local company First Option who are supporting our vision. Now, with a few weeks to go the event is shaping up to be the best ever. and we hope that local residents, music and festival lovers come down and support us. JDRF is the world’s leading charitable funder of research to cure, treat and prevent type 1 diabetes, and as my family has been directly affected by the condition, the charity was my obvious choice.  I have always wanted to put on a music festival, after being inspired by Eric Clapton’s CrossRoads Festival and this charity event is a great way to showcase good local music and highlight worthy causes, such as JDRF.

“Our ultimate aim is to have a fabulous vibe for the day which includes interesting aspects for children in terms of music, hands on involvement and many attractions that they can enjoy in an ultra-safe environment.”

So come on down to this musical extravaganza that will be fun for all the family. For further information and an event line up please visit: www.alresfordmusicfestival.com

JDRF is looking for a supporter or family to give a short presentation about JDRF and their experiences with type 1 diabetes at a corporate event in Oxfordshire. 

The presentation will be to approximately to 100-200 employees at a diagnostic company who develop and manufacture glucose-monitoring systems and test strips, and have selected JDRF to be their charity of the year. 

We will give you any assistance you might need to prepare your presentation and will of course reimburse your expenses. 

We need speakers on 20 June at 2pm and 7pm and on 21 June at 2pm.

Please contact Anna for more details if you are interested abrown@jdrf.org.uk

On 15 April 2012, Andy Sier embarked on an epic journey to cycle 640 miles in 10 days, all in support of JDRF.

It was Andy’s first long distance bike ride, and involved cycling an eye-watering 64 miles a day (on average), with a combined climb of approximately 17,000ft.

As well as a test of endurance, the journey was an opportunity for Andy to visit some personally significant places. He planned his route to start in Essex (his birth place), and take him through York (his university city) and across some of his favourite parts of the Lake District.

This was also Andy’s first attempt at raising big funds for charity. With £1,300 raised for JDRF so far, it has been a particularly spectacular effort!

JDRF is a charity close to Andy’s heart. His daughter Anna (pictured) was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 2, after being mistakenly diagnosed with a urinary infection by several doctors. The family were later told that if Anna’s condition had continued undiagnosed for much longer she would have gone into a coma.

Luckily Anna is now fit and well, and is approaching her ninth birthday. And with fundraising efforts like Andy’s, JDRF can fund more research to help find the cure for type 1.

To read all about Andy’s journey, or donate to his JustGiving page, visit Andy’s blog.

On 27 May 2012, ten friends will be taking on the Three Peaks Yorkshire Dales challenge to raise awareness of type1 diabetes and fundraise for JDRF.

The idea came from Ruth Robinson, whose daughter Amy was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in November 2010. A few months after the diagnosis, Ruth spotted an article in the local newspaper about Hayley Hurdle, a woman with type 1 diabetes who ran the London Marathon.

'Before I saw the article, everything I had read about type 1 diabetes seemed very negative’ Ruth told us. ‘I immediately sponsored Hayley, and she contacted me to arrange a visit. Since then she has been a close family friend, and has helped us immensely with coming to terms with the condition, as well as offering practical advice’.

Hayley will be joining Ruth, along with eight other friends, to walk the Three Peaks and raise funds for JDRF. The walk will cover an epic 23 miles, and involve tackling the three highest peaks in Yorkshire. The team hope to complete the walk in under 12 hours, but will be taking their head torches just in case!

To date they have raised over £1,300, and are overwhelmed by the support of friends and family who have sponsored them.

If you would like to help Ruth raise even more money for JDRF, visit her JustGiving page to make a donation.

Pictured (left to right): Maxine, Angie, Tanya, Mary, Gillian, Caroline, Julie, Lynn and Hayley

JDRF are delighted to report that our inaugural mass lobbying event, Type 1 Parliament, was extremely well received by all at Westminster. Over 50 MPs attended our morning event in Parliament and talked to supporters and delegates about the realities of living with type 1 diabetes. JDRF delegates put their messages across incredibly effectively and articulately, and communicated passionately the facts of type 1 diabetes.

MPs commented on the day and have been in touch with JDRF, stating how much they enjoyed the event and meeting with delegates. They have told us they were overwhelmed by all the children and adults they met with and thought they were fantastic ambassadors for the charity. There was a real buzz around the event and we truly succeeded in educating politicians about type 1 diabetes and raising type 1 diabetes up the political agenda.

JDRF will be working hard to build upon the momentum of this day and to continue to effectively work with these MPs in the future. We will be in later next week, with details of our next steps forward and how you can help us to take these relationships forward.

The media have also been keen to pick up on the event, with well over 350 pieces of national, local and online media mentioning JDRF and type 1 diabetes. Karen Addington, Chief Executive of JDRF, was interviewed on the BBC Radio 4 programme You and Yours talking about type 1 diabetes.

Our afternoon Question Time event was also a brilliantly received, with many thought-provoking and passionate questions receiving interesting and evocative responses from our panellists. In particular, it was a great opportunity for the Rt Hon. David Willets, the Minister responsible for Universities and Science, to hear the direct case for greater investment into type 1 research.

JDRF extends our thanks to all involved in Type 1 Parliament for making it such a worthwhile, enjoyable and productive day. We will now continue to work hard and build upon the success of the event.

You can view photos from the day on our Flickr account: www.flickr.com/jdrfuk

‘I welcome JDRF's Type 1 Parliament event, which puts the spotlight on type 1 diabetes. It provides the opportunity for people living with this unavoidable autoimmune condition to have their voices heard in Parliament,’ said the Prime Minister, David Cameron ‘I enthusiastically support JDRFs research programme, which aims to better treat, prevent and ultimately find the cure for type 1 diabetes.’

Today 60 children and adults with type 1 diabetes will be in the Houses of Parliament lobbying their MPs. They will take a message about the need for a greater investment in type 1 medical research to the heart of government.

Throughout the morning the children and adults will be meeting with more than 70 MPs to discuss what living with type 1 diabetes is like, and explain what a cure would mean to them.

They will then attend a panel debate where they will be able to challenge the Minister of State for Universities and Science, David Willetts, and other panellists on the lack of research funding and many other questions.

Congratulations to all of the JDRF runners who completed Sunday's Virgin London Marathon. The team featured 195 runners (including 26 with type 1 diabetes) who successfully completed the 26.2 mile course from Greenwich Park to The Mall. After crossing the finish line the runners met up with their supporters at the JDRF Recovery Venue for a well deserved sit down and massage. A special thank you to all the volunteers who helped out on the day cheering the JDRF team on from our Supporter Zone, and also to the students from Moulton College in Northamptonshire who provided the massage service for the JDRF runners at our Recovery Venue.

If you are interested in running the Virgin London Marathon 2013 for JDRF please contact Jon Medcraft on 020 7713 2032 or email jmedcraft@jdrf.org.uk.

JDRF welcomes the news that there is to be a £1.5 million boost in Scotland to provide more young people with insulin pumps. This is exciting news for young people with type 1 in Scotland. The funding will ensure more people have access to life-changing equipment such as insulin pumps, which can help people with type 1 to manage their condition effectively.

Scottish Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said the investment would help to ensure that a pledge to make insulin pumps available to 480 children and teenagers with type 1 diabetes is met by the end of March next year.

David Newman, Head of Public Affairs at JDRF said: “JDRF commends Scotland on leading the way on providing better access to insulin pumps. It is crucial that England and other regions follow suit. It is vital that people with type 1 can manage their condition and look after their health, whilst we search for the cure.

We are passionate about raising awareness of type 1 and are looking forward to hosting our first ever lobbying event, Type 1 Parliament. On 25 April we will push for greater investment into type 1 diabetes medical research.” 

We need as many people as we can to become a member of the Co-operative and then nominate JDRF as a prospect for the Co-op COTY 2013.

The Co-op raised a staggering £7million for Mencap and ENABLE Scotland - we would hope to be considered under the Co-op's goal of "Inspiring Young People."

You are a member of the Co-op if you have a Co-op bank account, a Britannia building society account or a loan from either of these companies.

Their membership department is on 0800 0234708 and they will check for you and let you know if you are already a member and give you your membership number.

Please follow the link below to sign up. You effectively become a shareholder of the Co-op and receive lots of benefits by being a member so everyone's a winner!

All help appreciated!

https://www.secure.membership.coop/NewMember.aspx

Then click here to enter your membership number and vote:

http://www.co-operative.coop/membership/local-communities/Charity-of-the-year-2013/

Supporters are helping via Facebook and CWD are on the case so fingers crossed we will get enough votes to be considered!

Neil McDonald, 42 from Aberdeen, is to climb Mount Everest and raise over £100,000 for JDRF.

Neil’s epic challenge is inspired by his daughter Darcey, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes three years ago. Motivated by how bravely Darcey coped with her condition and having seen the daily test type 1 diabetes placed upon his daughter and family, Neil decided he wanted to match this with an act of equal challenge, while also generating serious funds for JDRF.

Placing fundraising at the heart of his climb, Neil set an ambitious target of raising £100,000, with every penny of donations received going to JDRF. His wife, Linzie, has been spear-heading the fund-raising efforts and put on a highly successful James Bond themed ball which generated £83,000 in a single night.

In addition to fundraising, Neil has been training hard for the challenge, including summiting Europe’s highest peak Mont Blonc and Aconcagua, the highest mountain in South America. Neil has spent every available moment training and getting his body and mind fit for the challenge.

Linzie says: “This is important for Neil and for Darcey – for all of us. It has galvanised our family and made us all feel a little less helpless, a little less intimidated by type 1 and a lot closer together in achieving this goal.”

Neil, Linzie and Darcey have also featured in an STV News piece, documenting Neil’s momentous challenge and Darcey’s condition. This can be viewed here news.stv.tv/scotland/north/302532-father-takes-on-mount-everest-to-raise-awareness-of-type-1-diabetes/

To date, over £108,000 has been raised to support research to cure, treat and prevent type 1 diabetes. We are incredibly grateful to Neil and Linzie and all those who have donated funds to the McDonalds. All funds received allow us to support more research and take us a step closer to finding the cure. If you wish to donate to the McDonald’s fundraising effort visit ww.justgiving.com/climbingforacure.

We wish Neil the best of luck for his epic challenge, and Neil’s blog and more details can be found here: www.climbingforacure.co.uk

The JDRF-funded research team at the University of Indiana, led by Dr Sarah Tersey, found that beta cells can become 'stressed' and die even before the immune system begins its attack. The study was published in the journal Diabetes last week.

Not much is known about what happens in the build-up to the immune attack that targets beta cells and causes type 1: this study has given us some important new clues. By studying the development of type 1 diabetes in mice, the research team were able to observe that a part of the beta cell called the ‘endoplasmic reticulum’ can get very stressed in the early development of type 1 and trigger a process called 'apoptosis' that kills the beta cell. This can happen before the immune system begins its attack – it is possible that this stress response may even contribute to activating the process of autoimmune destruction.

The endoplasmic reticulum plays an important part in producing insulin, so it is a particularly sensitive part of the beta cell. Dr Tersey and her team found that stress on the endoplasmic reticulum affects the way insulin is produced – causing a chain of events that can eventually kill the cell. This is the first study to show that defects in insulin production can happen before the immune system begins to attack beta cells.

Rachel Connor, Head of Research Communication at JDRF said ‘A better understanding of the events that lead up to type 1 may help to advance strategies to delay or prevent the development of the condition. Dr Tersey’s study gives us new insight in to the very earliest stages of type 1 and opens new avenues of investigation that could lead us to an explanation of exactly what triggers the autoimmune attack in the first place’.

On 25 April, we will be staging our first lobbying day to raise awareness of type 1. When we ask Government for greater investment into type 1 research, we want to be able to speak up on your behalf about the issues that matter to you. We want to communicate to MPs, key influencers and the general public how type 1 affects every aspect of life, whilst getting rid of the misconceptions surrounding the condition. In order to do this, we need to be able to demonstrate how thousands of people across the UK are affected by type 1 every day.

This is why we’re asking you to share your experiences of living with type 1 diabetes. If you can spare two minutes, please take a moment to answer this quick survey about how type 1 has changed your or your child’s life; whether it be in your home life or at work and school.

We would be ever so grateful if you are able to fill out this survey. It will help us take a strong message to Parliament. We will post the results of the survey on our website on 25 April, so keep an eye out!  

JDRF is delighted to see today’s announcement that every child and young person with type 1 diabetes in England can expect an improvement in their level of care. NHS Diabetes has announced this good news as a funding agreement for paediatric diabetes services has been made.

Leading paediatric doctors, nurses and commissioners have worked together with NHS Diabetes to create a 'Best Practice Tariff for Paediatric. The practice tariff sets out 13 mandatory care standards that paediatric diabetes service teams must meet. Those who can prove they meet these levels of care will be able to get more funding. Local services which don’t achieve the required level of standards will be supported to improve but may have funding taken away if they are unable to meet the standards by April 2013.

It is hoped that this tariff will help to reduce costs to the service whilst also lowering the number of emergency hospital admissions among children with type 1 diabetes, and the incidence of life-changing, yet often preventable, complications of the condition.

JDRF welcomes this news in the hope that it will ensure people with type 1 are able to effectively manage their condition and will remain healthy whilst we fund research to find the cure for the condition.

If you want to have a read of the full report, you can find it here.

NHS Diabetes is asking healthcare professionals involved in the support and care of children and young people with diabetes to join their paediatric diabetes network as a way of sharing good practice. For more information about the Best Practice Tariff and how to join the NHS Diabetes paediatric diabetes network, email Marie Cummins 

We’re delighted to let you know that Paul Burstow, Minister of Health for Care Services, has spoken in Parliament welcoming JDRF’s Type 1 diabetes lobbying event. The Minister made his comments during a Commons debate on diabetes on Friday, stating:

“I welcome the fact that there will be a type 1 diabetes parliamentary lobby by the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in the next month or so to highlight some of the relevant issues.”

With JDRF’s Type 1 Parliament quickly approaching, a ministerial mention in Parliament goes a long way in helping raise awareness of the event and of some of the key issues surrounding type 1. In addition to drawing attention to Type 1 Parliament, the Minister also spoke about access to insulin pumps and medicine. The full debate can be accessed here.

You may have seen articles on BBC News and in The Independent today reporting that the number of people experiencing the complications of type 1 and type 2 diabetes is on the rise.

An audit of 1.9 million people with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes found more than 13,000 had a stroke in 2009-10, a 57% rise from 2006-7. And more than 7,000 had kidney failure, up 31% from 2006-7.

JDRF is appalled to see such an increase in people experiencing complications such as strokes and kidney failure and we fully support Diabetes UK’s action to ensure all people with diabetes get the health checks that they need.

At JDRF, we’re focused on keeping people with type 1 healthy, whilst we search for the cure. We know that being able to control your blood glucose level as tightly as possible can help to reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications – in fact achieving a drop in HbA1c of just 10% can reduce your risk of developing complications by as much as 40%. But unfortunately some people with type 1 diabetes do still develop diabetes-related complications.

This is why a significant part of our research is focused on understanding how type 1 diabetes causes complications, and developing drugs, treatments and therapies to stop or reverse the impact of these complications.
You can read about different projects we fund here .

Recent news from the University of Bristol highlights a new study designed to find out if exercise can help to keep insulin-producing beta cells working normally in people newly diagnosed with type 1. The study, called ExTOD, will look at how regular exercise can affect the progression of type 1 diabetes in this group of people.

Led by Dr Rob Andrews, ExTOD will consist of two parts. In the first phase, the researchers will conduct a one-off interview with people living with type 1 to discuss how they feel about exercise and any barriers they feel may stop them from exercising. In the second phase of the study, people who have been recently diagnosed with type 1 will be divided into two groups – one group will have form the control group’ with normal care from the specialist diabetes team, while the other group will also be asked to undertake a special exercise programme. During the year-long study, participants from both groups will complete regular fitness tests, blood tests and questionnaires to measure whether the exercise programme has a positive effect on blood glucose control.

Exercise and type 1 is popular topic at the moment: the journal Diabetes Care has just published the results of a study investigating how different types of exercise can affect people with type 1.

In this project, researchers from the University of Ottawa in Canada looked at what happened to blood glucose levels during different combinations of exercise. They asked participants to spend 45 minutes lifting weights, followed by 45 minutes running or vice versa while wearing a continuous glucose monitor.

The researchers found that when participants ran before lifting weights, their blood glucose levels dropped almost straight away and didn’t recover until close to the end of the session. But when participants lifted weights before running, their blood glucose levels remained in the normal range throughout most of the workout.

Rachel Connor, Head of Research Communication at JDRF commented: ‘We know that people with type 1 can find it difficult to work out the best way to exercise while keeping their blood glucose levels in a safe range. So the more information that research projects like these can provide for people with type 1 and their healthcare teams, the better.’

JDRF-funded scientists at Harvard University have provided new insights into to how stem cells develop to become insulin-producing beta cells.

The team, lead by Professor Doug Melton, have identified a marker which allows them to distinguish mature beta cells (which can produce insulin) from immature beta cells (which cannot).  The study is published in this month’s issue of the prestigious journal Nature Biotechnology.

Many scientists are working on ways to turn stem cells into beta cells. So far, they have managed to turn stem cells into immature beta cells in the lab, that when transplanted into mice will become mature beta cells that release insulin in response to glucose.  Although this is excellent progress, transplanting immature beta cells into humans is not ideal as there is a chance that some of the immature beta cells may not develop as expected, and instead begin multiplying out of control, causing cancer. For this reason, scientists want to be able to make fully mature beta cells in the laboratory which would then be much more suitable for transplantation.

Professor Melton’s work takes us a step further towards making mature beta cells in the lab. They have identified a protein that is found in mature beta cells but not in immature non- insulin producing ones. The protein, called urocortin-3, can now be used as a marker of mature insulin producing cells and will help scientists identify mature beta cells more easily when testing out new  ways to make them from stem cells. 

Rachel Connor, Head of Research Communication at JDRF said ‘Stem cells provide exciting possibilities for studying type 1 diabetes and potentially treating the condition in the future. Professor Melton’s study helps us understand more about how beta cells develop and crucially, also provides a way to efficiently test if new techniques for making mature beta cells from stem cells are working effectively’.

Some news outlets have today carried news about regional variations in foot amputations for people with diabetes.

This story is based on the publication of a research article in the journal Diabetologia, which provides detailed examination of the incidence of amputations in hospital records for all Primary Care Trusts in England. This builds on information published in the UK Atlas of Variation in Health Care in 2010, which drew attention to this regional variation.

The analysis conducted in this study has shown that the PCTs where there is a high incidence of foot amputation in people with diabetes also have a high incidence of foot amputation in people who do not have diabetes.

The authors suggest that some of the variation in these figures for amputation may be attributable to variations in the way foot care for people with diabetes is organised in different PCTs. The study’s authors highlight a number of initiatives which emphasise the need for multidisciplinary teams skilled in footcare, such as existing NICE guidelines and the Putting Feet First report published by NHS Diabetes and Diabetes UK.

Aside from specific variations in the organisation of foot care services, the authors also draw attention to the importance of effective diabetes management in preventing amputations in the first place.

Rachel Connor Head of Research Communication at JDRF commented ‘Whatever the reasons behind these regional variations, any amputation as a result of living with type 1 is one too many. That’s why we’re committed to researching new ways of treating and preventing the nerve damage that leads to problems in foot health.’

In 2011 JDRF funded £12.7 million worth of global research to treat and prevent the complications of type 1 diabetes. Find out how you can get involved

With JDRF’s flagship lobbying event Type 1 Parliament quickly approaching, we’re delighted to see many of you have been working hard to get type 1 mentioned in the media. Congratulations and thank you to all of you who have contacted the media and achieved coverage so far.

Alex Newman received excellent coverage, pictured alongside his MP Tony Baldry, in the Banbury Guardian: http://www.banburyguardian.co.uk/news/local/alex_nine_set_to_speak_to_parliament_about_diabetes_1_3506132

Emma Bailey was featured in The News in Portsmouth: 
http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/health/local-health/leigh_park_youngsters_diabetes_funding_row_goes_to_parliament_1_3575015

Kaye Sparrow gained coverage in the Wigan Evening Post:
http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local-news/brave_kaye_heads_to_parliament_1_4297594

While Lily Devereux appeared on page 8 in South East London magazine, The Transmitter:
http://issuu.com/thetransmitter/docs/thetransmitterissue22

As well as the online coverage, there have been some great print pieces in newspapers. Oliver Lack received brilliant coverage in the Richmond and Twickenham Times, with Oliver pictured alongside his MP Zac Goldsmith; Gracie Spandler featured in the Wharfedale & Aireborough Observer; Emily appeared with her Mum, Laura and sister, Katie in the Salisbury Journal; Danielle Sellers gained coverage in the Yorkshire Evening Post; brother and sister Jack and Chloe Gillum featured in the Shropshire Star; Danielle Sellers appeared alongside her children Elizabeth and James in the Wetherby Boston Spa & Tadcaster News; while George Dove gained coverage in the Mansfield Chad, in addition to many more of you.

Thank you to all of you for your fantastic work in attracting media attention and in raising awareness of type 1 diabetes and our lobbying day. If you have not already been successful at contacting your local media, then please do spread the word by telling your local newspaper, radio or television station about the day.

Even if you’re not coming along to Type 1 Parliament, you can still get involved. This event offers an invaluable opportunity to raise awareness of type 1 and the need for greater investment in research. This is a great chance to contact your local media and share your experiences of living with type 1 diabetes.

If you need any help or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the communications team on 0207 713 2030/comms@jdrf.org.uk. Good luck!

JDRF is pleased to support Diabetics with Eating Disorders (DWED) during National Eating Disorders Week. DWED is a charity supporting young men and women suffering from diabetes related eating disorders.

DWED aims to address the prevalence of eating disorders in people with type 1 diabetes, supporting people with the condition who deliberately manipulate their insulin in a bid to lose weight. Developing an eating disorder when you have type 1 diabetes is dangerous and can lead young men and women across the UK to experience the devastating complications of blindness and limb amputation. Unfortunately, it can be fatal. Alarmingly, the prevalence of eating disorders in people with type 1 is increasing.

Recent research shows that females with type 1 diabetes are at twice the risk of developing anorexia or bulimia, and as many as 40% of 15-30 year olds regularly don’t inject with insulin. Although less common in males, men with type 1 are also at risk of developing eating disorders. DWED exists to support, increase awareness and improve access to appropriate treatment for those who are affected by diabetes related eating disorders, and encourage eating disorders in people with diabetes to be recognised as a diagnosable mental disorder. 

JDRF welcomes the news that all eligible under eighteens with type 1 diabetes in Scotland will now have access to insulin pumps. The Scottish Government has said it is committing funding of at least £1 million to help NHS Boards deliver pumps to under eighteens who need them, as well as tripling the amount of pumps available to all people with the condition in Scotland.

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon made the announcement saying, ‘Insulin pumps mean freedom from having multiple insulin jabs a day - giving Scotland's youngest diabetics a normal childhood. By the end of March 2013, this treatment will be made available to the 480 children and teens struggling with type 1 diabetes who could benefit from it. Over the next three years, NHS Boards will also increase the number of insulin pumps available to all Scots to 2,000, tripling the current amount.

‘Diabetes is a growing problem for Scotland - around 10 per cent per cent of overall hospital expenditure relates to diabetes treatment and complications. Not dealing effectively with diabetes can cause long term health problems and we need to make sure that the youngest people with type 1 diabetes get the best possible treatment as early as possible.’

Karen Addington, Chief Executive of JDRF said: ‘This is good news for young people with type 1 in Scotland. Insulin pump therapy can help people manage their condition more effectively and reduce the risk of the devastating long term complications of type 1.

JDRF is focused on improving lives, until we find the cure, and we have been campaigning for some time for improved access to pumps. We are delighted that Scotland is taking the lead in providing excellent treatment for people with type 1 and we hope to see similar improvements across the rest of the UK in the future.’

In the letters pages of yesterday's Mirror newspaper, you may have seen a letter to Dr Miriam asking about a vaccine that can cure type 1.

Dr Miriam gave a great response explaining that although there is a vaccine in the early stages of clinical trials, a lot more trials need to be done to prove that it works before it can be made available to people with type 1.

In the trial Dr Miriam talked about, JDRF-funded researchers are trying to determine if a fragment of molecule from insulin producing beta cells called ‘proinsulin peptide’ could be used to retrain the immune system not to attack beta cells.

So far, the research team have conducted a small safety trial in people with type 1 diabetes to make sure the treatment is safe for use in humans. This trial showed that the treatment was safe and there were also signs that it may help stop the immune system attacking beta cells. If future trials show that it works well, this treatment may be able to prevent type 1 from progressing in people who have recently been diagnosed with the condition.

Professor Mark Peakman, who is leading the trial, said ‘We are very excited about the proinsulin peptide. Results from our first trials showed that the therapy was safe and we also saw promising signs that it may be effective in turning off the immune response that attacks beta cells. We are now recruiting for a larger study to test if the vaccine does turn the immune response in people with type 1 diabetes’.

If you are interested in finding out more about taking part in these, and other clinical trials, read more about current clinical trials.

JDRF- funded scientists at the University of Pittsburgh in America have uncovered a new way to grow human beta cells in the lab.

The team led by Professor Andrew Stewart, were able to get human beta cells to divide and make more cells. Not only that, but they then managed to stop the cells dividing again. The research was published in this month’s issue of the journal Diabetes.

The researchers added genes called cdk and cyclin d into the beta cells. These genes make the cells divide and are usually switched off in beta cells. To deliver these genes into the cells they used a virus that can get into cells easily. Once they had enough beta cells, they added a drug to the cells which switched off the virus and stopped the cells dividing.

In the body, beta cells divide very slowly or not at all so when the immune system attacks them, the cells are not replaced. Usually in type 1 diabetes there are a few beta cells remaining and if scientists could make these cells divide they could replace the cells destroyed by the immune system.

It is also difficult for scientists to study human beta cells in the lab because beta cells are in such short supply. So making more of them will allow scientists to do more research towards finding a cure for type 1.

Although these researchers had previously shown that they could make beta cells divide, this latest study shows that they have developed a way to stop the cells dividing as well. This is particularly useful because the genes they used to make the cells divide are not usually switched on in beta cells - so when they are dividing a lot they are not identical to the beta cells in the body. Switching these genes off again makes them more similar to ‘real world’ beta cells, which means any discoveries scientists make using these cells  are more likely to be applicable to beta cells in the body.

Rachel Connor, Head of Research Communication at JDRF, said ‘These are very interesting results because it is often difficult for scientists to get human beta cells to study. Growing beta cells in the laboratory that are as similar as possible to those in our bodies will help type 1 diabetes researchers to test their ideas and develop new ways of treating type 1 much more effectively.’

Today is an historic moment for JDRF. For the first time ever, we welcomed a member of the royal family to learn about JDRF's research into finding the cure for type 1. HRH Duchess of Cornwall visited the Cambridge Wellcome Trust clinical research facility just after noon today to learn more about type 1 research and to speak to celebrities and young people living with type 1 who have been involved with clinical trials. She met with researchers from the University of Cambridge who are working on developing the Artificial Pancreas and preventing type 1 diabetes and its complications.

HRH spent time with Jeremy Irvine, star of Steven Spielberg’s film, Warhorse who has type 1 diabetes and took part in artificial pancreas trials in 2005 and 2007. He explained how technology helps him manage his type 1 with a hectic filming career.

She also talked to BBC Radio 4 Today Programme presenter Justin Webb and his son Sam who has type 1 diabetes, and discussed the family’s hope for the cure.

The Duchess of Cornwall learned about two JDRF-funded trials. The Artificial Pancreas Project and The Adolescent Type 1 Diabetes Cardio-Renal Intervention Trial (AdDIT).

During the visit, Professor Dunger announced that 3,000 young people have now been screened across three continents as part of this international clinical trial, which is exploring ways to prevent the complications of type 1 diabetes.

Her Royal Highness met Dr Tim Tree and talked about D-GAP, Diabetes – Genes, Autoimmunity and Prevention project, which is exploring the causes and triggers of type 1 diabetes in people affected by the condition.

This visit was a chance for Her Royal Highness to decide how she might like to be associated with JDRF in the future. We are delighted to have had this opportunity to meet her, and look forward to seeing how a relationship might develop with HRH in the future.

Photography by Dominic Clemence

London Awards evening celebrates fundraising in 2011

On 17 January, over 120 people attended the London Awards evening at the Law Society in London. The evening saw families and companies from across the region receive awards for their dedication to raising money throughout 2011 to support JDRF and our mission to find the cure for type 1 diabetes. Upon arrival guests were treated to a celebratory glass of champagne and canapés, which was followed by the awards presentations.

The event also gave JDRF the opportunity to thank our 2011 sponsors. These included Macquarie Bank, who have continually supported the JDRF Spin to Cure event, and Ford for their sponsorship of our Walk to Cure Diabetes.

JDRF would like to thank everyone who has raised money or raised awareness of type 1 diabetes in 2011. Without your help and support JDRF would not be able to keep funding vital research into curing, treating and ultimately preventing type 1 diabetes.

If you are thinking of holding your own event or would like some help with your event please contact the Greater London team on greaterlondon@jdrf.org.uk

New type 1 diabetes support group set up in Wolverhampton

A new type 1 diabetes support group has been set up in Wolverhampton by two local mums. The T1 support group is open to anyone who has a child with type 1 diabetes or has type 1 diabetes themselves, and either attends New Cross Hospital or lives near to it and attends a local hospital.

The aim of the group is to connect families together to help provide a support network and hopefully raise money for JDRF!

Join their Facebook group page or contact Hannah at JDRF on hgripton@jdrf.org.uk or 0121 685 7102 for further details.

You may have read in yesterday’s newspapers reports that children of women who have diabetes are more likely to be born with a birth defect.

These articles discussed a new study by the researchers at Newcastle University. This study showed that  that seven out of every 100 babies born to women with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes were born with birth defects. These defects occur in about two in every 100 babies born to women who do not have diabetes, so this means women with diabetes 3.8 times more likely to have babies with birth defects.

The researchers looked at the records from 401,000 women who gave birth between 1996 and 2008 to see if birth defects were more common in people with diabetes.

Previous research has highlighted this increased risk for women with diabetes, but has also shown that this risk can be significantly reduced by keeping HbA1c levels low at the time of conception. The current research study provides further evidence of this effect:  fewer babies with birth defects were born to women with lower HbA1c levels.

This research highlights the importance of specialised care for pregnant women with diabetes, as careful glucose control is very important during this time. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommends that women who are planning to become pregnant should aim for an HbA1c level of 6.1, if this can be safely achieved.

Rachel Connor, Head of Research Communication at JDRF, said, ‘This study is helpful because it shows that while there are increased risks for women with type 1 diabetes who are planning a family, it is possible to reduce those risks significantly. By working with specialist diabetes teams, and potentially making use of glucose control technologies such as insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors, women with diabetes can minimise any risks to themselves and their developing babies’.

Simfest raises hundreds for type 1 diabetes research

Simfest, a music event organised by Danny Simm and his teenage friends, has managed to raise over £400 for JDRF and type 1 diabetes research. It was held at Fuzzbox Studios in Wigan with local bands like Levelled, Skive and Junction23 performing.

Danny said, ‘It was a fantastic event. We had some great bands performing.  Loor a los heroes went down a storm, Smitten Kitten blew everyone away and The Relays wrapped it up in style. To raise money on the day we shaved Mad Dog Maiden’s hair and raffled off a guitar, photoshoot and vouchers.

‘I decided to put on the event because friends of mine and my grandad have to live their lives with type 1 diabetes. This has alerted me to the struggle that they deal with on a daily day basis. It made me want to help and feel that I am doing something.’ 

One of Danny’s friends Harry Baxendale said, ‘I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when I was two and a half and living with type 1 diabetes can, at times, be a pain. But it doesn’t control me. I control it! It means a lot to me that Danny has organised this event to raise awareness and vital funds for JDRF, and it gave the band and me a wonderful opportunity to play to a packed crowd too.’

Danny said, ‘I just want to thank everyone who played, donated a prize and money. Next year we will be back with an even bigger event.’ 

(Pictured left to right: Josh Hindle, Harry Baxendale, Danny Simm, Sam Millar, Paul Mad Dog Maiden)