Beyond Type 1 Snail Mail Club

Beyond Type 1 is a non profit organization in founded in 2015 by Juliet de Baubigny, Nick Jonas, Sarah Lucas and Sam Talbot. They want to change what it means to live with Type 1 Diabetes through the power of social media and technology. They provide resources, education, and support for those living with Type 1. They are the fastest growing type 1 organization in the entire world! Their Instagram campaign "Live Beyond" features people living their best life with T1D everyday, while their @beyondtype1daily account gives you a daily dose of inspiration, hacks, giveaways, humor, stories, and behind the scenes of Beyond Type 1.

I found myself visiting the beyondtype1.org every day after my diagnosis using their resources to learn more about DKA, the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, and reading personal stories. I continued diving into their website finding every possible way to get involved in the community and was so excited when I found their Snail Mail Club!

Who doesn't love getting REAL mail?! I loved the idea of having a pen pal to write to. I knew NO ONE with diabetes of any kind when I was diagnosed Feb of 2017, so this program was perfect for me. It was originally designed for kids and teens, but overly enthusiastic adults, like me, are welcome, too.

Snail Mail Club is free to join, and open to anyone with Type 1 around the world. I recommend making a donation to cover the cost of participation if you are capable, but if not, thats okay too! You can even make a donation to cover the cost of you and another person who is unable to pay.

You have a choice of choosing a pen pal of the same age or gender, or you can select no preference. Once you are matched, you will receive a fun Starter Kit including stationary, stamped envelopes, postcards, stickers, etc.

I was so happy with my Pen Pal match! She is literally 10 days younger than me and was also diagnosed with Type 1 in her 20s. I sent my letter a few weeks ago and received her 1st letter a week and a half later. I was so excited when I saw the printed envelope in my mailbox. We are really enjoying getting to know each other and answering lots of questions. I've already written a response letter and I'm currently waiting to hear back from her. It's the best mail to get!!!

I highly recommend the Snail Mail Club for all ages! There are so many programs, clubs, and camps for kids and teens diagnosed with type 1, but more and more people are becoming diagnosed in their 20s and 30s. We need love too! I've been inspired with the idea of creating a camp or retreat dedicated to people diagnosed in their 20s. Being diagnosed is difficult at any age! We all need love, support and encouragement through the difficult times, especially the first few months.