Breakthrough T1D Walk is a nationwide movement where thousands rally to transform the future for those with type 1 diabetes (T1D). As the largest global event for the T1D community, Walk brings together those impacted by T1D to celebrate, educate, and fundraise for T1D research.
There are many ways to participate in a Breakthrough T1D Walk, from forming a friends and family team to starting a corporate team or building a virtual team! Meet three teams that are changing the lives of people with type 1 diabetes, one step at a time.
Stronger Together: The Power of Family
Oliver Christy was two years old when he was diagnosed with T1D in 2010. His family immediately jumped into action and started the Breakthrough T1D Walk team, Jolly Ollie, to raise funds for T1D research.
“I love the sense of community at the walk,” Oliver’s mom Karla said. “It was nice to not have people staring at us when we gave Oliver a shot of insulin so he could eat a snack. We watched someone change their pump site right out in the open!”
Because first-degree family members are at an increased risk for developing the condition, Oliver’s siblings, Miles and Stella, were screened shortly after their brother’s diagnosis. Stella had no T1D autoantibodies; Miles had one. The Christy family spent the next several years cautiously optimistic.
Then, in 2019, Stella was diagnosed with T1D after being admitted to the hospital with a blood glucose reading of over 900. Since Team Jolly Ollie no longer worked, the family changed the team’s name to Stronger Together.
Earlier this year, Miles was diagnosed with T1D. Whereas Oliver and Stella were diagnosed in Stage 3 (symptomatic) T1D, thanks to early detection, the doctors identified the condition in Miles at an early stage, avoiding a scary emergency diagnosis like his older siblings.
Most recently, the mother of one of Oliver’s friends was diagnosed with T1D in her 40s. The Christy family has more reasons than ever to be Stronger Together. “T1D can feel like an island sometimes,” Karla said. “The Walk is a reminder that we have a support group. It takes a village, and I am thankful for ours.”
Team Lilly: A Corporation That Cares
Lilly has been a global leader in diabetes care for over 100 years, since launching the first commercially available insulin in 1923. As a valued Breakthrough T1D partner since 1997, Lilly has raised millions through various initiatives and donated millions directly to research.
The Breakthrough T1D Walk is an important way for Lilly to show support for the local T1D communities and engage its employees in a cause that’s important to them. By gathering at walks across the country and raising money for type 1 diabetes research, Lilly team members hope to improve the lives of people living with type 1 diabetes while enjoying time together outside of the office!
Bianca and Olivia’s T1D Support Squad: Virtually Powering Breakthroughs
In August 2000, at age 5, Olivia Volpetti was diagnosed with T1D during a routine physical. Since then, the Volpetti family has been determined to make a difference, raising awareness and funds for T1D research through Breakthrough T1D Walk. “Walk is a core memory for us,” Olivia’s sister, Bianca, said.
In 2023, Bianca was planning her wedding but wasn’t feeling like herself—she attributed her weight loss and increased appetite to how busy she was. A visit to the doctor and then the hospital revealed she was in DKA and had T1D. “As Olivia would tell you, it’s because I obviously had to copy her,” Bianca joked.
Today, Olivia is “Dr. Liv,” a 29-year-old occupational therapist, and Bianca is happily married. Both are thriving.
More than ever, Olivia and Bianca’s mom, Donna, is a champion for her daughters and a devoted fundraiser for T1D research. “I am very grateful for all the ways that we now have to keep T1D under control and for those affected to live healthy, active lives,” she said. “My daughters are doing great because of it all.”
This year, the Volpetti family is holding a virtual walk the weekend of Thanksgiving so all their friends and family, near and far, can help fuel the breakthroughs that have allowed Olivia and Bianca to live their lives to the fullest.
Join the movement to transform life with type 1 diabetes. Start your own Breakthrough T1D Walk team today!
By Ellie Peterson
Though I do not live with type 1 diabetes (T1D) myself, I have witnessed firsthand the strength of those who do. My mom was diagnosed with T1D as a teenager, so T1D, and later the organization Breakthrough T1D, helped shape not only my relationship with and perception of my mother but also my adolescence. By witnessing how my mom has lived and thrived with T1D, I have developed a deep respect for her and a strong attachment to Breakthrough T1D’s mission.
Something specific that sticks out to me when I think back on my childhood in relation to my mom’s T1D is how safe she made it feel. I don’t have any memory of being scared for her, though I know she experienced health scares throughout my childhood. She would always reassure me that the finger pricks didn’t hurt, and I remember having a strange affinity for the glucose tablets that I would take alongside her in the car when she was low. I remember her explaining T1D to me as a kid in a way that was simple and age-appropriate, leading me to view it as merely a part of her life. I knew T1D as something that was a part of who she was but not something that limited or defined her.
Though my mom is extremely independent, I think her T1D invited a certain level of vulnerability that allowed us to become closer. I learned empathy and understanding and the ability to see and respect resilience, all of which I value deeply and will carry with me throughout my life.
Even in moments of struggle, my mom shielded my siblings and me from worrying excessively. She was able to admirably balance her health with raising three kids in a way that equally educated us and aimed to protect us from concern. She juggled medical implications, dietary considerations, and blood-sugar scares with grace. As an adult who now understands more clearly the complexities and daily struggles that come with having T1D, my respect and admiration for my mother have grown.
I also want to acknowledge that my mom has had the great privilege of an amazing and supportive network through Breakthrough T1D that provided not only community but also technology that has directly improved her quality of life. My mom was also fortunate to have extremely supportive and dedicated parents, who, shortly after my mom’s diagnosis, co-founded the Mississippi chapter and have been dedicated advocates for Breakthrough T1D’s mission since.
A heartwarming memory that I have to mention when discussing familial support is one of my dad. In my senior year of high school, my dad ran 268 miles between September and October to raise money for Breakthrough T1D before the annual Walk. He had me make custom signs to thank each donor (pictured at left). His love and support of both my mom and Breakthrough T1D are so inspiring to me and speak not only to his dedication and respect for my mom but also to the community Breakthrough T1D provides.
As I enter into adulthood and begin my internship at Breakthrough T1D this summer, I carry with me the respect and admiration I have for my mom and the organization Breakthrough T1D itself. Her journey with T1D, her strength, and her outlook on life have shaped me into the person I am today.
L-R: Saige, Samantha, and Doug Merwin at the 2022 Breakthrough T1D Ride in Saratoga Springs, NY
After their child, Saige, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) at 17 months old, Doug and Samantha Merwin turned to Breakthrough T1D for support.
There, they found their purpose.
First, the Merwin family joined One Walk, which inspired them to get more involved. They helped set up local T1D playgroups and worked with other parent advocates to create a local Facebook parent group, now almost 700 parents strong! Years later, Samantha worked closely with their chapter to help establish consistent community events. “My goal was—and still is—that no family should feel isolated at diagnosis,” Samantha said.
Their work with Breakthrough T1D continued to expand to include advocacy and participation on their community board, where Samantha is currently starting her third term as community engagement lead. “People often think I work at Breakthrough T1D since I volunteer at everything,” she said. “But I just do what is needed to support the T1D community.” In addition, Saige has served as a Youth Ambassador, a Breakthrough T1D Children’s Congress Delegate, and a volunteer at countless local Breakthrough T1D events.
In honor of Saige’s 10-year diaversary, the Merwins decided to participate in Walk, Ride, and Team Breakthrough T1D…all in the same year! The rest, they say, is history.
Tenacity for T1D
Saige and Samantha at the 2017 RunDisney Marathon Weekend 5K as part of Team Breakthrough T1D
Saige and Samantha started running together with Team Breakthrough T1D in 2016. “It’s such a special weekend,” Samantha said. “I love the energy, the commitment of the runners, and, of course, standing in the corrals at 3:30 a.m. waiting for the race to start.” To date, Saige and Samantha have run over 70 miles for Breakthrough T1D.
The Merwins started a fundraiser for Team Breakthrough T1D that has now carried over to Ride: they write the names of all their donors on their legs for the event. “When the ride or run gets hard, we tell them we will look down and remember that we are participating for everyone in the community, not just our family,” Samantha said.
Doug and Saige with donor names written on their legs for inspiration
Their journey with Breakthrough T1D Ride began in 2017 in Saratoga Springs, where Samantha and Saige volunteered at the finish line. It became their standard volunteer post, including the following year, when Samantha and Doug planned something special. “Saige thought Doug was working and couldn’t volunteer with us,” Samantha said. “It was a huge surprise when he crossed the finish line!”
Saige started riding with Doug in 2022. That year’s Ride held a special meaning for Samantha—she was able to put a medal around both her husband’s and child’s necks after they crossed the finish line. She was also awarded the Volunteer Dedication Jersey, which was incredibly humbling. “I truly appreciate how the Ride community embraced our family from the beginning and look forward to volunteering every year,” she said.
For Saige, the 2023 Ride in Burlington, VT, stands out. “It was my longest distance ride yet at 78.6 miles! Also, riding in the pouring rain with other people with T1D was memorable.”
This year will be Saige’s third Ride. So far, Saige has ridden 172 miles and plans to increase that number by 100 this year!
Hope for the Future
Volunteering and fundraising for Breakthrough T1D gives the Merwin family hope. “I look at how much simpler it is for Saige to manage T1D now versus years ago,” Samantha said. “Breakthrough T1D’s research funding is our best chance for a better life for Saige.”
The Merwins are also fierce advocates for affordable insulin and know their efforts are making an impact. “The funding for Civica is so critical, especially now with the insulin shortages, which we have been personally impacted by,” Doug said.
Saige will head to college in the Fall of 2025 to study meteorology and get more involved with technology. Breakthrough T1D will be there every step of the way. “I won’t stop until we cross our ultimate finish line: cures.”
Register now for a 2024 Breakthrough T1D Ride!
Go the distance and register for a Team Breakthrough T1D event today!
Breakthrough T1D One World is a virtual world built for Roblox, the #1 online gaming platform for kids and teens. It’s a family-friendly place where people of all ages can get together, play games, and learn about type 1 diabetes (T1D). It features minigames like Trivia Tug of War and Parkour, educational booths to about T1D, and an exclusive V1P tent that you can get into by collecting coins around the world.
Breakthrough T1D One World is constantly transforming and expanding. A collaboration with Breakthrough T1D UK added landmarks like Big Ben, Stonehenge, and the Loch Ness Monster. Other newer features include a “Quest for the Golden Rufus” treasure hunt and even a Washington, D.C. side quest in honor of Breakthrough T1D Children’s Congress. With an 89% positive user rating on its latest game expansion, Breakthrough T1D One World is a hit!
Charity Walk Simulator
Nearly four years later, Breakthrough T1D One World has announced its biggest content update yet: Charity Walk Simulator. Breakthrough T1D One World’s newest game mode is a tycoon simulator that puts players in charge of their very own Breakthrough T1D One Walk.
Breakthrough T1D Game2Give Ambassador Toonafeesh with his son, Tiny Toona
The goal of Charity Walk Simulator is simple: players have to walk! Steps add up to earn players Blue Hearts, which can be used to build booths along the walkway, dress up avatars with fun accessories, and get power-ups. Charity Walk Simulator also has new non-player characters to chat with, trivia questions to answer, obstacle courses to master, and leaderboards where players can compete to accrue the most steps.
10-year-old Breakthrough T1D One World player Tiny Toona, diagnosed with T1D at age 4, likes all the opportunities to explore in the game. “I unlocked a holographic Game2Give logo that was my favorite,” he said.
“It’s really cool,” says 7-year-old Jack, who was diagnosed with T1D a little over a year ago. “It shows you that having T1D doesn’t stop you from doing fun types of activities!”
Meeting kids where they’re at
Kids today spend a more significant amount of time in virtual settings, whether it’s playing video games or remote learning. Breakthrough T1D’s One World meets kids with T1D where they’re at to provide a sense of community and connection.
Breakthrough T1D One World player Jack and his mom, Jordana
Jack’s mom, Jordana, believes Breakthrough T1D’s presence in Roblox helps her son feel more confident about living with type 1 diabetes. “I find it so wonderful that Roblox has provided a T1D-friendly platform for a game like Charity Walk Simulator,” she said. “I can’t think of a better way for Roblox to normalize T1D than having this kind of game.”
Toonafeesh, Tiny Toona’s dad and a Breakthrough T1D Game2Give Ambassador, views streaming and playing video games with his son as a unique way to make a difference. “Breakthrough T1D One World is a great tool to raise awareness and educate people who may not understand what having type 1 diabetes means,” he said.
A world that keeps growing
Breakthrough T1D has big plans for more One World expansions, including a virtual walk fundraising option.
“For those who cannot make it to a physical One Walk location, the participant can still fundraise and then get their steps in via Breakthrough T1D One World,” says Josh Larson, Breakthrough T1D Game2Give National Director.
These digital complements to in-person programs at Breakthrough T1D inspire and motivate the T1D and gaming communities.
“There is a lot of optimism regarding the work that Breakthrough T1D and so many others are doing,” Toonafeesh said. “Game2Give gives us an opportunity to keep pushing for a cure.”
Breakthrough T1D Game2Give® is building community, advancing research, and making a difference, one video game at a time. Get involved today at https://jdrfgame2give.org/.
Mike Haenni (back center) at his first Breakthrough T1D Walk (formerly JDRF One Walk) with Kayla’s mom, Trisha Yettke (far left)
Breakthrough T1D Walk (formerly JDRF One Walk) is more than a fundraiser, it’s a community. Meet two Walk team members who found support and inspiration in one another.
Mike: Living with T1D for 49 years
In the mid-1970s, Mike Haenni was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) at the age of 26. The diagnosis came as a surprise, even though his father lived with the condition. “I erroneously believed I was immune because type 1 skipped generations,” Mike said.
His initial healthcare provider was a general family practitioner. He soon switched to more specialized care, where his T1D management improved…and continues to. “Initially, I checked my glucose through urine and tablets in a tube, then finger sticks,” he recalled. “Today, I do it using a continuous glucose monitor and pump.”
Kayla: Living with T1D for 19 Years
In the mid-2000s, Kayla Taszarek was diagnosed with T1D at the age of 10. The diagnosis came as a surprise, but her family was already very familiar with T1D. “I’d grown up with knowledge of type 1 diabetes because my mom was diagnosed in 1977,” she said.
Kayla has seen “drastic improvements” in her T1D care since her diagnosis, especially with automated insulin delivery systems. “There are still plenty of ups and downs and difficult days, but the safety features, more sleep, and more time-in-range have significantly impacted my quality of life,” she said.
A New T1D Champion
A few years ago, Kayla and her husband bought a house and got to know their neighbors—one of them was Mike! “My mother-in-law knew Mike and that he had T1D,” Kayla said. “She made that connection for us.”
Kayla, a development manager at Breakthrough T1D’s Kansas and Missouri Chapter, encouraged Mike to join the Breakthrough T1D Walk team she leads with her mom, Blondes with ‘Betes, so he could experience the huge local T1D support community. “Walk is our day for anyone and everyone to come together,” she said. “Whether you’re a child or an adult, you get to celebrate your strength and walk together towards a future without type 1 diabetes.”
Mike jumped right in and invited his daughter and son-in-law to join. He even joined the T1D parade as part of the 20+ Year Champions group. “I can’t think of a more impactful way to feel the energy of Walk,” Kayla said.
Mike is very thankful that Kayla showed him the incredible Walk community, and they’re both looking forward to walking in the coming years. “To feel the love and support of your community means everything, whether it’s your first Walk or your tenth,” Kayla said.
The Breakthrough T1D Walk accelerates research, powers advocacy, and provides support for everyone living with T1D. Registration is open now! Find your Walk at walk.BreakthroughT1D.org.
P.J. Pimpinelli started his Breakthrough T1D One Walk team in his sophomore year of high school, shortly after he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) at age 13. He was a member of the Community Service Club and got his whole school involved in fundraising. During homeroom, P.J. and his friends would sell paper sneakers for $1 each. Each grade had a different colored sneaker, so it became a fun competition to see who could raise the most money. “I would stay after school every day to hang the sneakers around the cafeteria so that everyone could see which class was winning,” he said. P.J.’s paper sneaker sales raised almost $2,000 every year.
But his fundraising didn’t stop after high school. In fact, it continued to grow and in 2023, Team P.J. is walking for their 19th year! “Every Breakthrough T1D Walk feels like a reunion with family and friends from high school, college, graduate school, and various jobs,” he said.
Where’s P.J.?
One of P.J.’s most memorable walks was the year he wasn’t there! He unintentionally planned a vacation the same weekend as the Breakthrough T1D One Walk. That didn’t stop his family and friends. “My team still showed up to the Walk wearing t-shirts with an illustration of me under a palm tree and the words ‘Where’s P.J.?’” he said. “It goes to show how much everyone cares about the cause.”
Why P.J. Walks
P.J. has experienced the impact of T1D research first-hand. Early in his diagnosis, he wore a “bulky” diagnostic continuous glucose monitor (CGM) for three days so his doctor could assess his blood glucose trends. “I never would have imagined that, years later, I’d be using a CGM all the time and that it would talk to my pump to make insulin adjustments,” he said. “The past 5-10 years of technological advancements in T1D have been absolutely life changing, and I’m excited to see what products are released in the future.”
Today, P.J. works as a physician assistant in pediatric endocrinology. “My diagnosis inspired me to end up where I am today,” he said. “Breakthrough T1D has played a huge role in my life. My team and I look forward to the Breakthrough T1D One Walk year after year.”
Join other T1D families at your local Breakthrough T1D One Walk!
Malena Rubalcava named her Breakthrough T1D One Walk Team Bloody Roses. “Roses are beautiful to look at,” she said. “But if you touch a thorn, you bleed, just like when you check your glucose level.”
Malena was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in May of 2022 and her story is a common one: she was losing weight and drinking a lot of water, so her parents took her to the pediatrician. The seven days Malena spent in the hospital gave her parents time to contemplate. “We approached her diagnosis with an ‘I’ve got it’ mentality, which impacted how Malena approached it,” her mother Sulin said.
The Rubalcavas reached out to Breakthrough T1D for support after receiving a Bag of Hope in the hospital. They immediately signed up for the Los Angeles Breakthrough T1D One Walk. There, they realized they were part of an entire community of people with a positive approach to T1D. “Marlena was happy to be there,” Sulin said. “She was excited to see she wasn’t alone in her diagnosis.”
Another Reason to Walk
In their first year, the Bloody Roses raised over $1,000, making Malena a V1P (much to her delight!). This year, they’re back with even more reasons to fundraise for T1D research: Malena’s younger sister, Belisia, was screened for T1D and determined to be at risk of also developing the disease. Sulin is glad they found out about Belisia’s risk through screening because it gives them the opportunity to be prepared and proactive. “Now Belisia can potentially qualify for new research or therapies to delay type 1 diabetes or even prevent it,” she said.
The Rubalcavas recently attended a TypeOneNation Summit, which they found invaluable. “The Summit helped us have a deeper understanding of type 1 diabetes,” Sulin said. It also gave them great hope for the future: “We want Malena to feel empowered in managing her T1D and live a normal life as much as possible.”
Join other T1D families at your local Breakthrough T1D One Walk!
Special thank you to our partners at Ford for their 25 amazing years of support, raising more than $75 million, and inspiring many others to join the Breakthrough T1D One Walk to move critical research for type 1 diabetes forward.
