This year, our Kids Korner, Tween T1me and Teen Talk will include local professionals who have created educational and fun activities to engage with the kids.  We already introduced you to Kristi Caporoso, but we also want to highlight Colleen Clark Chou, Trooper Reinaldo Cruz, Jr. and Joe DiDomizio!

Colleen will be in with our tweens, Trooper Cruz will spend time with the kids and tweens and Joe will be with the kids and teens.  Joe will also be doing a Q&A session with our Executive Director Jess Backofen during lunch in the American Beauty Ballroom.

Colleen Clark Chou, RN, MA, CDE, CPT

Colleen Clark Chou received her Bachelors of Science in Nursing at the University of Scranton and a Masters of Art degree in Nursing Education  from New York University.  With 12 years experience as a Certified Diabetes Educator caring for children and adults with diabetes in hospitals and out-patient settings.  Colleen has been invited to speak at numerous nursing conferences and diabetes events. She is a certified insulin pump trainer for major insulin pump companies and a consultant for Michael’s Miracles Foundation, teaching diabetes management in schools, daycare and assisted living facilities throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Trooper I Reinaldo Cruz, Jr.

A proud member of the New Jersey State Police, Reinaldo entered his outfit ten years ago.  With many of the requirements expected of Troopers, one of them is the completion of an annual physical exam. It was during one annual exam, five years into his position, that he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Since then, he has used his position in the State Police to assist other motorists experiencing hypoglycemia, as an advocate for people with diabetes and even meets youth throughout the state to share his story. He has been a catalyst in educating fellow Troopers of warning signs during a diabetic emergency and how to respond.

Joe DiDomizio

Joe was diagnosed with T1D while playing Division I soccer in college.  He also served as the lead drummer in the well-known band, Screaming Broccoli.

Joe is most passionate about entrepreneurship, people, philanthropy and community building.  Her serves on the National Board of Directors for Communities and Schools and supports Breakthrough T1D.  In 2014, he appeared on CBS’ show Undercover Boss – Season 5, episode 12, one of the most watched episodes in the show’s series.

Joe is also the former President and Chief Executive Officer of Hudson Group.