Breakthrough T1D Philadelphia Gala 2026

Shortly after moving to New Jersey at the start of her sophomore year, Sloane Haines was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Adjusting to a new high school was already a challenge, but managing a life-changing diagnosis made it even more difficult.

After spending a week at CHOP, Sloane and her parents, Randal and Bianca Haines, immersed themselves in learning everything they could to navigate their new reality. Countless finger pricks, injections and Capri-Suns later, Sloane eventually transitioned to using an insulin pump and a continuous glucose monitor—tools that made managing T1D feel a little more manageable, especially with college on the horizon.
Sloane went on to attend Florida State University, where she earned a degree in meteorology and landed her first job as a TV meteorologist at a small news station in Salisbury, Maryland. Today, 12 years after her diagnosis, Sloane lives in South Jersey with her husband, Adam Vicente, and their daughter, Este. She now works as a video editor in the nonprofit sector.

If there’s one thing T1D has taught Sloane, it’s that it truly takes a village. It takes a team of researchers, doctors, families, and supporters to bring us closer to better treatments, better tools and, one day, a cure.

Staci’s journey into advocacy began in the summer of 2022 when her son, Ari, received his Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) diagnosis at age 17, right before his senior year of high school. Once Ari left for college, Staci found herself feeling untethered and searched for a community. This search led her to Breakthrough T1D (then JDRF). Staci immediately joined the monthly virtual meetups for parents and caregivers, discovering what she described as a “never-ending well of support, understanding, and outstanding practical advice.” After attending those meetings, she was deeply engaged. Her commitment grew as she began volunteering for the organization at the Philadelphia Walks, Summits, with the Advocacy Team, and on the Gala Committee. Through this involvement, she found more than just a community; she discovered a deep network of passionate people dedicated to improving the lives of everyone living with T1D.

Breakthrough T1D’s mission to find cures and improve the lives of those living with T1D has become Staci’s personal mission as well. For her, this means working tirelessly to raise the crucial funds needed for scientists to advance their research and develop a cure. She is continually impressed by the rapid evolution of diabetes management technology, noting the significant progress from the first insulin pump (a backpack developed in 1963) to modern devices like the tiny Tandem Mobi and the tubeless Omnipod. Staci recognizes that this progress is directly fueled by the generosity of every dollar raised to support research and breakthroughs. Believing the work isn’t done yet, she views this as an exciting time where science is closing the gap toward cures, with every advance relying on continued funding.

Staci resides in Lower Merion, Pennsylvania, with her husband. Her heart is always full when her two boys, Ari and Josh, are home. Professionally, Staci teaches nutrition and culinary skills to children from 3rd through 12th grade through the Vetri Community Partnership. Her son, Ari, has been a rockstar since his diagnosis, taking full ownership of his T1D management from day one. Staci and her husband proudly serve as his support squad.

Karen Rogers is the meteorologist for Action News Mornings and Action News at 10 A.M. Karen earned her seal of approval from the American Meteorological Society. She holds a certificate in Broadcast Meteorology from Mississippi State University following three years of studies in atmospheric sciences and geosciences.

Karen also holds degrees in Communication and Sociology from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, where she was valedictorian of her communication class and the class speaker for commencement. Karen is listed in “Who’s Who Among American Colleges and Universities”. After graduating with honors, Karen traveled to the United Kingdom as a Rotary International Scholar where she pursued her graduate studies in Broadcast Journalism. After graduation, Karen briefly worked at WHSP-TV in Vineland, NJ where she anchored daily news cut-ins, interviewed political leaders for her monthly show, Congressional Report, and hosted weekly talk shows.

Karen was born and raised in New Jersey along with her nine brothers and sisters. She says she grew up watching Action News and never imagined she would one day be a member of the Action News Team. She joined the station in 1996 as a reporter and producer for the show AM/Philadelphia. Karen quickly joined the AccuWeather team and found her true passion in weather forecasting.

Along with her role in news, Karen was a longtime host of FYI Philly, and is part of 6abc specials including The Auto Experience, the 6abc Dunkin’ Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Philadelphia Flower Show Special. In addition to her work at 6abc, Karen is active in supporting young people. She says one of her most rewarding experiences was working with the Child Assault Prevention Program teaching elementary school students empowerment skills for reporting and preventing abuse. Karen says she drives to work every morning feeling blessed to work.

Shelby Stokes has a rich history as a multi-generational auctioneer. His grandfather and father are both well-established auctioneers both with successful auction companies.  Shelby began his journey at a young age attending and volunteering with a variety of auctions. In the summer of 2002, he attended the Western College of Auctioneering to officially attain the title as Auctioneer.

With a personality that exudes positivity, Shelby is able to connect with guests and create a charitable environment that is filled with humor. For Shelby, each event is a brand new opportunity to bring people together to support their cause. He believes that it’s important to treat each event as if it is the first and only opportunity to raise funds and so he strives to put on the best show guests have seen at an auction.

Shelby doesn’t only share his mastery of the stage with organizations, he also shares his expertise with the future generations of auctioneers at Western College of Auctioneering.

When he is not celebrating with organizations or teaching the next generation of auctioneers, Shelby is celebrating life with his wife Kayla and their two daughters. He greatly enjoys being able to teach his girls about life and the world around them.