Message from the Executive Director – 2022 Year In Review
in General

Relentless pursuit of mission. This defines Breakthrough T1D and our chapter through the work our volunteers, advocates, staff and donors passionately support. As I reflect on 2022, I’m so appreciative and inspired by our chapter community. You all continue to drive our mission forward through every project and event throughout our chapter footprint. This year has also delivered significant advances in mission that are highlighted in JDRF’s What We Can Be Proud of in 2022.
It was wonderful to be able to hold in-person events again this year. Thanks to our volunteers and donors, our events were a huge success! In addition to the fundraising success that propels the mission forward, the fellowship of the community being together strengthens our chapter bonds. The relationships that are built at these events are incredibly heartwarming.
The compassion of our community was highlighted with response to tragic passing of Jean Kuczka, the St. Louis teacher killed in a school shooting protecting her students. The Breakthrough T1D Kansas & Missouri Ride Team and riders across the country rallied to support Jean’s family. Jean was preparing to ride her 16th Ride to Cure Diabetes in Amelia Island in her relentless pursuit to make life better for her son, Joe. Jean’s family was able to participate in the ride and received her honorary Promise jersey to recognize her unwavering support of Breakthrough T1D. The community rallied in so many ways from riders wearing their ride jerseys to her visitation, making memorial gifts to her ride page, two riders in Albuquerque, NM riding a route of Jean’s initials with a heart around it and sharing the map of their ride, and the entire group of Amelia Island riders honoring Jean with complete support of her family.
Our Kansas & Missouri Breakthrough T1D Chapter is full of inspiring stories generosity and grace. It is an honor and privilege to be part of this group. If I can be of any help to you or family, please reach out to me.
Sherri Lozano
Executive Director, Kansas and Missouri Chapter