When Michael passed away in August 2010 after a long battle with diabetes, his family was heartbroken. The loss was sudden, heavy, and life-changing. But before long, their grief began to take shape as something meaningful: a commitment to honor Michael’s memory by helping young people facing the same disease he had lived with for so many years.

 

Michael loved golf, and his brothers and sister knew that Mike’s friends, family, and community would rally around a cause that carried his name. That fall, the first annual MJM Golf Outing was held. What began as a way to remember Michael quickly became something bigger. The outpouring of support lifted up the Jaspan family and made it clear that the money raised should be used to support children and families living with diabetes.

​

Soon after, the family learned about Camp Nejeda, a special place founded in 1958 where children with Type 1 diabetes can simply be themselves. Through sleepaway camp, family camp, day programs, and seasonal programs, Camp Nejeda gives children and their families the support, confidence, and community they need.

Today, children attending Camp Nejeda remain the primary beneficiaries of the Michael Jaspan Memorial Fund. Through the generosity of family, friends, and supporters, Michael’s memory continues to bring joy, hope, and opportunity to young people living with diabetes.

​

What began as a family’s love for Michael has become a mission: to help children with diabetes experience the chance to just be kids.