Annual award recognizes outstanding Breakthrough T1D volunteer leadership
Chicago, Ill. and New York, Feb. 12, 2025—Breakthrough T1D, formerly JDRF, the leading global type 1 diabetes (T1D) research and advocacy organization, proudly announces Joe Lacher as the recipient of the 2024 Jim Tyree Award for his longstanding service at Breakthrough T1D, exemplary leadership as chair of the International Board of Directors during the height of the global pandemic, and contributions as a member of the Illinois Chapter Board of Directors.
Named after Jim Tyree, former chair of the Breakthrough T1D International Board of Directors, the Jim Tyree Award recognizes a volunteer leader who has made a significant and noteworthy contribution to Breakthrough T1D during their tenure of service.
Joe spent nearly 20 years quietly fighting T1D on his own. It was when his son Patrick was diagnosed with T1D that Joe turned his attention to finding cures and improving the lives of those with T1D. When their son Tommy was diagnosed seven years later, Joe and his wife Marisue were deeply engaged in Breakthrough T1D as major donors, fundraisers, and leaders. Joe currently serves as a member and former president of the Illinois Chapter Board of Directors. Along with Marisue, he co-chaired their chapter’s 2024 gala, which raised a record-breaking $18.5 million. His family remains very involved in the chapter, with both sons serving as previous Children’s Congress delegates and their family walk team raising more than $150,000 since 2006.
Joe’s leadership as Chair of the International Board of Directors during the global COVID-19 pandemic is especially noteworthy. During this uncertain time, Joe helped Breakthrough T1D respond with courage and resolve by fast-tracking strategies to maintain organizational momentum and reduce expenses with a clear focus on the mission. He confidently led staff and volunteers through many difficult transitions at both the local and national levels. Joe is currently serving as a member of the International Board of Directors, Nominating and Governance Committee, and Audit and Risk Committee.
“Joe is a consummate leader and true T1D champion who has had a profound impact on Breakthrough T1D and the pursuit of our mission,” said Aaron Kowalski, PhD, Breakthrough T1D CEO. “His strategic mindset, incredible business acumen, and steady leadership on the International Board of Directors and in his own community demonstrate his deep commitment to changing the course of T1D for all who live with it. We are proud to honor Joe with this award and express our deepest gratitude for his ongoing contributions and support.”
Breakthrough T1D recognizes and appreciates all of the dedicated volunteers and supporters who commit their lives to the worldwide effort to end T1D. Volunteer award recipients were recognized at the annual Breakthrough T1D One Conference in Phoenix, Arizona.
About Breakthrough T1D, Formerly JDRF
As the leading global type 1 diabetes research and advocacy organization, Breakthrough T1D helps make everyday life with type 1 diabetes better while driving toward cures. We do this by investing in the most promising research, advocating for progress by working with government to address issues that impact the T1D community, and helping educate and empower individuals facing this condition.
About Type 1 Diabetes (T1D)
T1D is an autoimmune condition that causes the pancreas to make very little insulin or none at all. This leads to dependence on insulin therapy and the risk of short and long-term complications, which can include highs and lows in blood sugar; damage to the kidneys, eyes, nerves, and heart; and even death. Globally, it impacts nearly 9 million people. Many believe T1D is only diagnosed in childhood and adolescence, but diagnosis in adulthood is common and accounts for nearly 50% of all T1D diagnoses. The onset of T1D has nothing to do with diet or lifestyle. While its causes are not yet entirely understood, scientists believe that both genetic factors and environmental triggers are involved. There is currently no cure for T1D.
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