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Greetings!

As we step into a new season, I want to take a moment to thank you for your continued support of Sansum Diabetes Research Institute (SDRI). With your generosity, we are making meaningful strides in diabetes research and care, work that impacts lives here in our community and far beyond.

In this update, I am proud to share how SDRI is expanding its leadership in clinical research and how you can be more engaged in this vital work.

This past quarter, SDRI launched three new clinical research trials focused on new therapies for type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. We enrolled nearly 40 participants – highlighting both the strength of our research team and the trust our community places in us. Each study brings us closer to new treatments and better outcomes for people living with diabetes.

Our role as a leading research institute is growing, and we need your help to keep the momentum going. Clinical trial participants are the heartbeat of progress and getting involved is one of the most impactful ways to support the future of diabetes care.

We invite you to learn more about our open studies and find out if you or someone you know might be eligible to participate. Visit sansum.org/participate-in-a-trial or contact our recruitment team today to take the first step.

Together, we are advancing science that transforms lives. Thank you for joining us!

Yours in purpose and progress,

Elizabeth Thompson
Chief Executive Officer

Help Advance Diabetes Research – Join a Study

Real Research. Real Impact. Discover SDRI’s Current Clinical Trials

SDRI is committed to improving lives through innovative clinical research. Our current studies are designed to explore new treatments, technologies, and approaches to diabetes care, with a focus on real-world impact.

Explore our actively enrolling studies below and see if you are eligible to participate.

The Space that Defies Limits

Innovative Research, Inspiring Hope. Building the Future of Diabetes Research

SDRI is renovating its 18,000 square foot research facility to create a state-of-the-art center dedicated to accelerating life-changing diabetes research. With a century of leadership in diabetes research, SDRI is proud to be an industry-preferred partner for clinical trials. Each year, we conduct more than 25 research studies, engaging approximately 700-1,000 participants. To learn more about how you can help advance our campaign, please contact Kara Hornbuckle today!

You’re Invited to Taste of the Vine 2025

Join us at SDRI’s 17th Annual
Taste of the Vine fundraiser on
September 27, 2025

20 premiere Santa Barbara purveyors will pour highly coveted wines, artisanal beer, and non-alcoholic beverages.  Savor a selection of gourmet appetizers, followed by a beautifully crafted sit-down dinner perfectly paired with world-class, highly acclaimed wines from Paul Lato Wines.

Reserve your table today, and become a sponsor at Taste of the Vine!

Connecting the Type 1 Diabetes Community

Register Now for the T1D Community Summit with SDRI and Breakthrough T1D

The 2025 Breakthrough T1D Community Summit is a dynamic event for all people impacted by type 1 diabetes (T1D) – individuals, families, caregivers, and supporters. This year’s summit will feature:

  • Inspiring Keynote and Research Update from Dr. Kristin Castorino, Vice President, Clinical Research and Senior Investigator at SDRI, and Kevin O’Scanlon, from Breakthrough T1D
  • Special Guest Speaker – Aidan Free: Hear from an inspiring high school student, clinical trial participant, Breakthrough Youth Ambassador, and Children’s Congress Delegate
  • Interactive Diabetes Vendor Fair: Explore the latest in diabetes tech, tools, and resources
  • Breakout Sessions For Everyone: Tailored discussions for individuals, families, and caregivers. Whether you are newly diagnosed or have been managing T1D for years
  • Build Community and Connection: Meet and share stories with others in our local T1D community

May 4, 2025 | UC Santa Barbara Corwin Pavilion

Showcasing Innovation on the Global Stage

SDRI’s Research Featured at ATTD 2025

The ATTD 2025 conference, held in Amsterdam in March 2025, is a gathering for world leaders to share the latest innovative treatments and technology for people living with diabetes. SDRI’s significant research contributions, published in top-tier, peer-reviewed medical journals, were part of the discourse. We proudly recognize Dr. Kristin Castorino, VP of Research and Senior Investigator, as a leader in the field and author on these papers:

  • How do outcomes with the Omnipod 5 automated insulin delivery (AID) system compare for persons with type 1 versus type 2 diabetes? Learnings across studies.
  • Simplified meal bolus strategies for the Omnipod 5 automated insulin delivery (AID) system in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D): Sub-analysis of the SECURE-T2D study.
  • Improved glycemic outcomes with the Omnipod 5 system in people with type 2 diabetes using GLP-1 receptor agonists or SGLT-2 inhibitors: Sub-analysis of the SECURE-T2D study.

Breaking Barriers to Diabetes Care

SDRI Brings Ocho Pasos to California Racetracks

SDRI collaborated with the California Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Foundation, which provides medical and dental care for racetrack workers throughout California, to provide Ocho Pasos classes to their patients who are Spanish-speaking Latinos with or at risk for type 2 diabetes. 

This transformative eight-week program is taught by Community Health Workers and empowers the Latino community with essential knowledge on nutrition, physical activity, and diabetes self-management. By bringing Ocho Pasos to new communities, SDRI is breaking down barriers to care and improving health outcomes for those at high risk of type 2 diabetes.

Photo credit: CTHF

Understanding Type 1 Diabetes: Why Early Screening Matters

You Are Invited to Two Special OneTalk Special Presentations

Leave a Legacy of Impact

You can shape the future of diabetes research, education, and clinical care today and for generations to come. By including SDRI in your estate plans, you ensure that our life-changing diabetes research continues to thrive well into the future. Whether through a bequest, trust, retirement plan, or other planned gift, your legacy will help us advance innovative treatments and improve lives for those impacted by diabetes.

If you’re interested in learning more, we would be honored to speak with you. Every legacy gift, large or small, helps us build a healthier future. Please contact Kara Hornbuckle at khornbuckle@sansum.org or (805) 722-5603 for more information.