Meet One of Our Researchers!

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Sonia Hernandez, PhD, is one of the researchers working with us in the Vascular Complications Laboratory.  Dr. Hernandez shares her experiences with us below:

"I joined the Medalist program one and a half years ago. Before I worked at the Joslin, I had never heard of the 50-Year Medal. Not only this, but I had never stopped to think what it would be like to have type 1 diabetes for so long. I often wonder, what is it like? Does it become a habit, routine, or are there always new challenges and milestones? What kind of personality, family support, and strength does it take to get a Medal?

When I came to Joslin, I thought I would be thinking mainly about biochemistry, metabolism, biology. I was very eager (and still am) to understand and contribute to the prevention of the complications of diabetes. I did not expect, however, to ponder on the determination, energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to find cures, treatments of so many people.   Being part of the Medalist Team has made me come closer to the human side of research, and get infused with Medalist energy and purpose to improve the lives of people with diabetes in the future."

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Keep in touch with Joslin's 50 Year Medalist Program!   Joslin’s 50 and 75 Year Medalists often have remarkable stories of their individual experiences living with diabetes.  Memories of events from the time of diagnosis and childhood, as well as personal successes and triumphs, are important and note-worthy.  Many Medalists enjoy telling their stories, and we appreciate the unique opportunity to hear these anecdotes from 50 or more courageous years with diabetes

In early June 2012, members of the 50-Year Medalist Study team attended the annual American Diabetes Association Scientific Sessions in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.  Below, local Medalists gathered with the team for a Joslin reception.  From left to right, Sara Turek, Stephanie Hastings (Study Coordinators), Alice Strack, Sally Sheppard, Jane Kadohiro, and Dr. George King.  In June of 2012, we plan to attend the American Diabetes Association Scientific Sessions held in Chicago, Illinois.

Did you attend Camp Nyda as a child with diabetes?  One of our Medalists, Sandy Dettenmayer, is working with a group to plan a reunion for campers next summer.  For more information, please contact the Medalist Program or find Sandy's group on Facebook:  "Camp Nyda Reunion 2013."

This photo was taken at a JDRF event for individuals with type 1 diabetes in Phoenix, Arizona on April 14th, 2012.  It shows three 50-Year Medalists (Gilda Harris, Patricia Glass, and Tom Beatson), with Dr. Aaron Kowalski of JDRF, Lorie Conway, and Judi Robinson.  All six individuals pictured have type 1 diabetes, with their years of duration adding up to slightly over 300!  This event was arranged by Lawren Romero and her colleages at JDRF Phoenix.  About 600 people were present, with speakers from all over the United States.

Photo credit: Diabetes Hands Foundation