T1D ResearchWorks is an event organized by the Breakthrough T1D CFKF Centre of Excellence at UBC in collaboration with the fantastic Young and Type 1 Organization. The goal of the event was to bring together those who have lived experience with T1D (as a patient or caregiver) with diabetes researchers, postdocs, students, and other stakeholders in the type 1 diabetes community. The evening seemed to inspire hope by bringing the power of research taking place right here in BC to life over drinks & delicious canapes at the beautiful Mansion Lounge located in the Paradox Hotel.
Trainees (students and postdocs) affiliated with the Breakthrough T1D CFKF of Excellence at UBC made posters for the evening featuring their research in lay people’s terms. These were displayed through the room on easels in an art gallery style setting to foster thoughtful and engaging conversations between the researchers working hard to improve the lives of those living with T1D, and the people who experience the day-to-day struggle of type 1 diabetes.
Ramya Hosak, Co-Chair, T1D Lived Experience Advisory Group for the Centre of excellence and Executive Director, Young and Type 1, kicked off the event in a powerful and engaging manner! We were lucky to have Honorable Josie Osborne Minister of Health and MLA join us at the event who expressed just how important knowledge exchange work between researchers and the public is. Thereafter, the Scientific Theme and Project Leads went over what each of the Centre’s three themes mean.
This was a unique opportunity for type 1 diabetes researchers to ask questions and understand what it is like to live with type 1 diabetes in an informal, lively atmosphere, while sharing their incredible work to those whose lives will be impacted by their work. A Poster Contest and ‘Trainees for T1D’ Quiz further facilitate fun knowledge exchange between the 2 groups.
