Jett Foundation is excited to announce that Chris Schlechty will be joining its Board of Directors. Chris’ lived experience with rare disease, as well as his software engineering background, will be a welcomed asset to the Board and Jett Foundation’s leadership team.
Hailing from Kirkland, WA, a short drive from Seattle, Chris works at Microsoft as a software engineer developing the user interface of SharePoint and OneDrive. He was hired after an internship at the company and graduating from the University of Washington with a degree in computer science.
“As someone with Limb Girdle muscular dystrophy, I have an intimate knowledge of muscular dystrophy and the challenges people go through. I appreciate the Foundation’s goals of improving the lives of those affected and their families,” says Chris.
Chris first became involved with Jett Foundation as a participant of Camp Promise, Jett’s summer and year-round camp programming for individuals living with Duchenne and other neuromuscular disorders, like Limb Girdle.
“Without counting the T-shirts, it’s hard to know the exact number of camps that I have been to, but I believe it’s been about 10 years. It’s been a great opportunity to spend time with friends, meet new people, and do some different activities.”
“As our programming expands to meet the needs of as many families as possible, it is important that our leadership is reflective of the community we serve,” says Jett Foundation Executive Director, Eric Snyder. “We are excited to bring on Chris and capitalize on his experiences both living with rare disease and as a participant in our camp program.”
Chris hopes that his personal experience living with muscular dystrophy will help guide program development in his role as a board member. When asked what he hopes to accomplish as a board member, Chris said, “Historically, the 18+ people with muscular dystrophy have been underserved, and often are not aware of programs and resources available to them. I am especially interested in assisting and providing insight for Jett’s youth transition programs and resources as our population ages.”
To learn more about Jett Foundation’s leadership and community programming, please visit jettfoundation.org.
