Each year, Team Johnson & Johnson comes together to raise funds for type 1 diabetes (T1D) research, rallying support and awareness for JDRF. The team has participated in JDRF One Walk for more than 20 years in the Bay Area, and in Eastern Pennsylvania for more than 10 years. In addition to fundraising and participating on Walk Day, the Johnson & Johnson Diabetes Solutions Companies, LifeScan and Animas, have sponsored the Walk for many years. “Our vision is to create a life without limits for people with diabetes. This mirrors JDRF’s aim for better programs to treat individuals living with T1D,” says Mary Lou Stuart, Associate Director, Corporate Citizenship, Johnson & Johnson Diabetes Solutions Companies. Also like JDRF, Johnson & Johnson believes in the power of each individual to make a difference. So, on Walk Day, dozens of Johnson & Johnson employees, friends and families turn out to fight T1D one step at a time.

“Johnson & Johnson’s presence at our Walk means so much to the community that benefits from the products and services they provide,” says Kevin O’Scanlon, Walk Manager, JDRF Greater Bay Area Chapter. “It is an opportunity to connect a multinational organization directly to its customers on a local level.” Many team members live with T1D or have loved ones affected by the disease. “This helps fuel the passion for JDRF,” says Mary Lou.

“Our employees enjoy the opportunity to come together as a group for such a great cause. It’s great to be outdoors for the day,  enjoying each other’s company and meet the family and friends of our fellow co-workers,” says Mary Lou.

The team knows how important it is to fundraise prior to all the fun on Walk Day. They have raised tens of thousands of dollars over the years. “The work that JDRF does is so important and valuable to the diabetes community. At Johnson & Johnson Diabetes Solutions, we are equally committed to providing support and resources to help people living with diabetes, through our various companies and offerings,” says Mary Lou.

By participating so enthusiastically in the Walk, Johnson & Johnson has brought JDRF into their corporate family. “Johnson & Johnson truly defines the meaning of ‘corporate partnership’. JDRF depends on the support of Johnson & Johnson and its employees, so we can continue to raise funds for research and improve live of those living with T1D, until we find a cure,” says Magda Lara, Corporate Development Director, JDRF Greater Bay Area Chapter.

Watch for a feature in the coming weeks on NBC Bay Area. 12 Degrees of Inspiration will showcase Johnson & Johnson and LifeScan’s ongoing partnership with JDRF!

Register for JDRF One Walk at walk.jdrf.org.