Bakken Invitation call for applications is now open

Each year, the Medtronic Foundation’s Bakken Invitation recognizes inspirational patients whose lives have been impacted by medical technology and who use their “extra life” to give back to others. 

Named after Medtronic co-founder Earl Bakken, the Bakken Invitation brings together patients who “Live On” through their advocacy contributions, “Give On” through innovation, and “Dream On” through their vision of a better world. Medtronic Foundation is now seeking applications for the 2018 Bakken Invitation and needs your help identifying inspiring patients who are making a difference globally. 

For Jason Baker, living with type 1 diabetes inspired him to found Marjorie’s Fund, a nonprofit in Uganda that helps people with type 1 diabetes effectively manage their diabetes, regardless of age, geography, or means. Karla Altmayer’s journey with a rare congenital heart defect inspired her to co-found a worker-led movement to end gender-based violence. Lindsay Davis gave up her dream of becoming a ballerina after being diagnosed with a cardiac disease at age 17. After she received an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), she found a new dream of raising awareness about sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in children.  These are just three of the 59 people who have attended the Bakken Invitation since 2013. 

Earl Bakken will recognize a new group of honorees this January in Hawaii, where they will spend five inspirational days learning and networking with others. Attendees leave with a sharpened set of skills, new connections and a heightened sense of purpose. Watch some of their stories here. If you know of an inspirational patient who is deserving of this recognition, please encourage them to find more information or apply at liveongiveon.org.

The deadline for application is 18th July 2018.

The Bakken Invitation is part of the Medtronic Foundation’s commitment to empower a network of patients to serve as key voices in affecting social change, transforming healthcare and inspiring others.