February is an exciting time for hyperinsulinism (HI) and rare disease communities, as it marks Rare Disease Month and Rare Disease Day. Rare Disease Day – on or around the leap day (the rarest day of the year!) – has been an opportunity for our community to share their challenges and triumphs, to offer support to one another, and to help raise awareness about HI through social media and productive conversations about life with a rare disease.
One member of the HI community – Elizabeth Cooper, an adult with HI – harnessed her and her family’s skills to both raise awareness of HI and to support CHI through a fundraiser that we are all so excited about!
Elizabeth has been a valued member of the CHI community for several years as a volunteer for the Sugar Soiree, our annual fundraising gala. When she reached out to us about the possibility of a fundraiser collaboration with her uncle’s candle business – Shining Sol Candle Company – we were thrilled at the opportunity! Based in Manassas, Virginia, Shining Sol specializes in non-toxic, clean-burning soy candles, using eco-friendly cotton wicks.
The CHI x Shining Sol Candle Company is truly a family affair! In addition to getting her Uncle Pete involved in the cause of raising HI awareness, Elizabeth enlisted the help of her graphic designer/artist boyfriend Mychael to design the label of the candles. Each candle displays a short message about our mission, as well as a QR code to our website with more information and resources.
Elizabeth kindly shared with her social media following:
“Each candle represents more than just a warm glow. It’s a beacon of hope, spreading awareness and supporting Congenital Hyperinsulinism International (CHI) to fund critical research, education, and support for families. By pre-ordering, you’re not only lighting up your home, you’re helping us light the way for early diagnosis, better treatments, and a future where rare diseases like HI are better understood and treated. Your purchase is a step toward making a real difference. Let’s join forces to create change — one candle at a time.”
Shining Sol Candle Company are offering their most popular scents – White Tea, Egyptian Amber, and Sugared Fruit and Citrus. 30% of the proceeds will be donated to CHI to help fund hyperinsulinism research, support, and education. Candles are available for purchase here.
Order by February 12th to receive your candle in time for Rare Disease Day! You will be able to order CHI x Shining Sol candles through March 15, 2025.
This CHI-collaboration candle will be available until March 15.
For more information about CHI’s plans for Rare Disease Day, visit this link.
