Fund A Cure with Gio Montalbano | Breakthrough T1D Kansas City Gala 2026

About Gio

Gio is a curious, adventurous third grader whose story is still being written. A few years ago, his family realized they were on a journey they had not expected. During a train ride, repeated bathroom stops became the lightbulb moment that led to a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes. Early signs of T1D can include the “four T’s”, increased toileting, feeling tired, constant thirst, becoming thinner, and for some young children, tantrums. Like that train, Gio is full steam ahead, rumbling through life with type 1 diabetes.

Today, Gio is thriving. He loves playing soccer, building complex LEGO creations, traveling, and trying new foods. His rock-climbing skills are especially impressive, often stopping people in their tracks as he scales quickly to the top. Each adventure comes with extra preparation and a family always looking out for lows, but Gio meets it all with grit, bravery, and determination.

Because of Breakthrough T1D, Gio’s family has had a front-row seat to progress, better tools for daily management, earlier identification for those at risk, and real momentum toward a cure. While Gio does not always love talking about diabetes, he lights up when he meets others who understand it. In Gio’s words, “diabetes sucks,” but it does not define him or limit how high he can climb.