Your monthly roundup of chapter news, upcoming events, community highlights, and ways to get involved!
November Is National Diabetes Awareness Month!
It’s November, which means it’s National Diabetes Awareness Month! As we approach World Diabetes Day on November 14, building awareness and understanding about type 1 diabetes (T1D) is more important than ever. When we See T1D, we move closer to life-changing breakthroughs in research, advocacy, and support—helping people with T1D live fuller, healthier lives as we drive toward cures.
Your support this month helps the world see T1D and the resilient people who face it.
Pizza for a Purpose with Dewey’s Pizza
All November Long
This November, enjoy your favorite pizza while supporting Breakthrough T1D! Throughout National Diabetes Awareness Month, Dewey’s Pizza will donate a portion of proceeds from every Dr. Dre Pizza sold to Breakthrough T1D.
Created by former Dewey’s kitchen manager André Howard, who lived with T1D and passed away at age 30, the Dr. Dre Pizza holds a special meaning. This annual fundraiser honors André’s memory while supporting the T1D community.
Stop by Dewey’s this November, order a Dr. Dre Pizza, and help make a difference!
Celebrating Keirsten Welch: Promise Jersey Recipient!
We’re excited to share that Central Ohio’s own Keirsten Welch received the Promise Jersey at this year’s Breakthrough T1D Ride in Austin! This special recognition honors a rider who demonstrates an outstanding commitment to the T1D community and a promise to keep riding and fundraising until cures are found.
Keirsten has served as a Ride coach for four years, and Austin marked her 16th Ride! As a mother of three daughters living with T1D, she’s also a passionate advocate for T1D screening, awareness, and research.
Congratulations, Keirsten, on this well-deserved recognition! Thank you for all you do for the T1D community.
Connect with the Central Ohio T1D Community!
Looking to meet others in the T1D community? Check out these upcoming opportunities to connect!
November 21 | Central Ohio Adult Coffee Meetup
Time: 8:30–10 AM
Location: 8911 S. Old State Rd., Lewis Center, OH 43035
Grab a coffee and spend the morning with other adults living with T1D! Whether you’re looking to meet new people or share experiences, we’d love for you to join us.
Questions? Email [email protected].
Breakthrough Pods | Monthly Virtual Gatherings
Next Meeting: December 1, 2026
When: First Tuesday of Every Month
Looking for a place to connect with others who understand life with T1D? Join our free monthly virtual Breakthrough Pods!
These casual, welcoming gatherings are a great place to share resources, celebrate wins, and talk through the challenges of living with T1D.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or have been navigating T1D for years, you’re welcome to join!
Breakthrough Pods meet virtually on the first Tuesday of every month.
Questions? Contact Martha Butcher at [email protected].
Register for a Breakthrough Pod
Calling All Young T1D Advocates!
Young people living with T1D have two exciting opportunities to share their stories, connect with others, and make a difference!
2027 Breakthrough T1D Youth Ambassador Program
Applications Open: November 26, 2026
Application Deadline: January 1, 2027
The Youth Ambassador program gives young people living with T1D the chance to share their experiences, raise awareness, and get involved in their local community.
Youth Ambassadors support Breakthrough T1D events, connect with other families, and develop leadership skills while making a difference in the T1D community.
Apply to Be a Youth Ambassador
Returning Youth Ambassadors: Reapply Here
2027 Children’s Congress
Application Deadline: November 30, 2026
Every two years, more than 160 children and teens with T1D from across the country travel to Washington, D.C., to share their stories with lawmakers and advocate for the T1D community.
Taking place June 28–July 1, 2027, Children’s Congress gives young advocates ages 4–17 the opportunity to make their voices heard, build friendships, and raise awareness about T1D.
Applications are due November 30, 2026!
Save the Date: Upcoming Central Ohio Events in 2027
Mark your calendars for these upcoming events in 2027!
March 13, 2027 | Central Ohio Community Summit
Join us for the Central Ohio Community Summit! More details will be shared soon.
April 10, 2027 | Hope Is Bloom Gala
Save the date for the 2027 Hope Is Bloom Gala! Tickets will be on sale soon.