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.
