Snail Mail Club FAQ
Editor’s Note: The Snail Mail Club is made possible by Abbott, makers of the FreeStyle Libre 3 System and the JDRF x Beyond Type 1 Alliance — active partners of Beyond Type 1 at the time of publication.
What is The Snail Mail Program?
Beyond Type 1’s Snail Mail Program is a connection-building program for people living with diabetes. Participants are matched with a fellow person living with diabetes in a similar situation so they can connect, relate to, and support in a unique way to their mutual experience.
The Snail Mail Club allows people with type 1 diabetes from all over the world to connect with one another.
How do I join the Snail Mail Club?
It’s easy! Simply head over to the Snail Mail page and fill out the form. (If you are under the age of 13, please get your parents’ help.)
What Happens After I Sign Up?
Once you sign up and tell us a little about yourself, we will match you with your pen pal. Once matched, you will receive an email about who your pen pal is.
This email will include your Snail Mail Toolkit—with all the information you need to start writing to your pen pal!
I Just Got My Toolkit Kit—Now What?
Step 1: In your welcome email that contained your Welcome Kit, you should have received information about how to connect with your Pen Pal. This may have included items such as their mailing address, email address or social channels. Keep this information handy for future reference.
If your Pen Pal has provided an email address or phone number for texting, or their social profile, start by contacting them electronically to say hi! We encourage you to connect with your Pen Pal over social media.
Step 2: Print the Beyond Type 1 stationery kit—you’ll find it at the end of this Welcome Kit.
Step 3: Stay connected and communicate at least once a month or as often as you and your Pen Pal agree to!
Be sure to let your Pen Pal know if:
- You move addresses or change your contact information
- If anything will limit your communication, such as vacation, final exams, or if life is just really busy!
How long does it take to get a return letter?
It will probably take a few weeks, depending on if your pen pal is domestic or international. Keep checking the mailbox!
What do I do if I don’t hear from my pen pal?
If your pen pal has provided their email address and/or social profiles and you have waited three or more weeks for your first letter, feel free to contact them. If they didn’t provide an email and/or social profiles, send us an email at snailmail@beyondtype1.org and we will check up on it for you!
Do I have to wait for a letter before I send another one?
Of course not! You can send your letters whenever you want.
What should I talk to my pen pal about?
You can, of course, talk about your life with T1D, including:
- Your diagnosis story
- Your frustrations
- Your proud moments
- Tips on how you manage your T1D
- What kind of devices do you use, and
- If you know other people with T1D
We also encourage you to think beyond that!
- What do you like to do in your free time?
- What hobbies and interests do you have?
- Where are your favorite places to go to have fun?
- What makes you unique and special?
- Do you have any pets?
- Do you have any brothers or sisters?
- Have you recently been on a cool vacation?
You can answer these questions and ask each other, but feel free to talk to them about whatever you want!
What can I send my pen pal?
If you both enjoy writing letters, that’s great. You can also exchange photos or books. And if you want, you can surprise your pen pal with a gift on their birthday or “diaversary”. There are no limits to what you can share, so go ahead and connect with your new friend. It’s all about building relationships!
I have an international pal, how do I know how much postage to use?
Every letter is different and postage is measured by the weight and size of the letter. If you are unsure of the required postage for your letter, we recommend going to your local post office, (or MailBoxes, etc., Postal Annex, or shipping store), and they can weigh the letter for you and let you know exactly how much postage you will need.
Can I use my own stationery?
Absolutely! Feel free to write and send whatever you would like—we encourage you to keep up the relationship.
What if I need to request a new pen pal?
If you need a new pen pal, please email us at snailmail@beyondtype1.org.
What if I need to Beyond Type 1?
If you have any questions, comments or concerns don’t hesitate to email us at snailmail@beyondtype1.org and we will get back to you!
