Annual award recognizes outstanding Breakthrough T1D volunteer leadership
Naples, Fla. and New York, Feb. 27, 2026—Breakthrough T1D, formerly JDRF, the leading global type 1 diabetes (T1D) research and advocacy organization, proudly announces Deborah Nuzzo as the recipient of the 2025 Dr. Gerald Fishbone Award for her longstanding volunteerism at Breakthrough T1D, service on the Global Mission Board, and leadership within numerous chapters.
Named after the late Dr. Gerald Fishbone, a tireless T1D champion and part of Breakthrough T1D from the very beginning, the award recognizes an individual for exemplary, long-term volunteerism in support of Breakthrough T1D mission priorities.
Deborah’s journey with T1D began when she was diagnosed with the condition 54 years ago. In 2002, she became involved with Breakthrough T1D through her local chapter and quickly discovered a deep sense of purpose. Throughout her decades of service to Breakthrough T1D, Deborah has served in many volunteer leadership roles. She currently serves on the Global Mission Board and Board Development Council and is a sustaining board member within her local chapter in Naples, Florida.
Deborah and her husband John have chaired multiple galas and been recognized as gala honorees. In 2017, Deborah took on a challenging gala in need of support, and within the first year, the gala revenue increased by 300%. She has served as board president for multiple chapters, where her strong business acumen, tenacity, and steady leadership has been invaluable. In 2014, Deborah played a critical role in facilitating the merger of the Central Jersey and Mid-Jersey chapters, helping to strengthen the organization’s footprint and impact. In just the past month, Deborah helped lead the South Gulf Coast Chapter gala to record highs in fundraising. She has passionately contributed to each program Breakthrough T1D has to offer, advocating for T1D research and fostering a strong sense of community along the way.
“We are thrilled to honor T1D champion and devoted volunteer leader Deborah Nuzzo for her years of service and commitment to accelerating Breakthrough T1D’s mission,” said Aaron Kowalski, Ph.D., Breakthrough T1D CEO. “Deborah’s steadfast presence, incredible leadership in fundraising, and resilience throughout her own T1D journey have inspired those around her and elevated Breakthrough T1D’s engagement with the type 1 diabetes community. We are deeply grateful for her service on the Global Mission Board and in her local communities, which has moved us forward on the path to cures for type 1 diabetes.”
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 New Orleans.
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 9.5 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.
