Tell us about yourself:
I am originally from Connecticut, but moved to Baltimore about two years ago with my husband and our recent addition-a black lab puppy, Scout. I love to travel, play tennis, cook and spend time with family and friends. I joined the Greater Chesapeake and Potomac Chapter staff in May, and I will be managing the 2016 Maryland Hope Gala and could not be more excited! I’ve loved meeting our committee members and volunteers, and will strive to match the excellence of work on the Gala last year.
Describe your history with type 1 diabetes & your relationship with Breakthrough T1D:
My aunt passed away from complications of T1D right before I was born, and my mom made the cause her passion. I grew up attending Breakthrough T1D walks, participating in telethons, etc. Additionally, my husband’s aunt has T1D and is a crusader for the cause. She has participated in the bionic pancreas trial, and has run in three NYC marathons so far. Having T1D on both sides of the family has made me passionate about raising awareness and funds to find a cure!
Tell us about your volunteer and fundraising efforts.
I was a board member on the Communications and Corporate Committees for the Combined Charities Campaign with the City of Baltimore and was responsible for a city-wide giving campaign. Additionally, in 2015, I led the City of Baltimore YouthWorks program which provided internships and school credit to underprivileged students in Baltimore.
What would you say to someone who does not have a direct type-1 connection in order to encourage them to volunteer with the chapter? What would you say to someone that does have a connection?
For someone who doesn’t have a connection, I would explain T1D and the importance of research to find a cure. I would explain how imperative volunteers are in this cause. For those who do have a connection to T1D, all the more reason to get involved and become part of the Breakthrough T1D family!
What has been your most memorable volunteer experience with the chapter? Why?
My most memorable experiences have been at the Real Estate Games and the Breakthrough T1D One Walk in Washington, DC. I feel honored to have witnessed the passion of staff, volunteers and participants at these events. Everyone is so driven to raise money and awareness in the fight against T1D; and it has truly inspired me.
