Meet one of this year’s Dream Gala Men on a Mission, Michael Keith, as we honor his continued support and dedication to Breakthrough T1D. 

As a healthy, active father of two, nothing could have been farther from Michael Keith’s mind than a diagnosis that he had diabetes in November 2003.  After contracting a major case of poison ivy over a weekend camping trip two months prior and receiving a steroid shot to cure it, Michael wasn’t exactly sure what was wrong with him when he went to see his doctor.  Severe thirst, frequent urination, and the loss of fifteen pounds in two month’s time were clear signs something was wrong.  However, after receiving an initial diagnosis and treatment plan for type 2 diabetes resulted in frequent hypoglycemic episodes, he sought the help of an endocrinologist who told him he was one of a growing population of adults who develop type 1 diabetes later in life.  Today, the population of adults over 30-years old who are diagnosed with T1D is one of the two fastest growing segments with the disease, the other being children under the age of three. Michael got involved shortly after his diagnosis when a colleague suggested he attend a Walk to Cure Diabetes Celebration event that the Greater Dallas Chapter hosts each year for the Breakthrough T1D Walk teams.  The impact that the children and families had on him was profound and, to this day, continues to drive his involvement.  As a conscientious patient and adult, the daily routine of living with diabetes for Michael does not compare to the stress and strain that the children with T1D and their families live with.  That inspiration is the passion behind him having served as a volunteer, legislative advocate, board member, and Executive Committee member since 2005.  And, as someone who believes that blessings can come, even out of adversity, Michael is thankful for the friendship and support he has received from his fellow servants with the Breakthrough T1D and who share his passion to find a cure.  That is also why the Breakthrough T1D Dream Gala is so special for him and his family. To his family, friends, colleagues at PlainsCapital Bank and the Breakthrough T1D Greater Dallas community, thank you for your commitment, dedication and support of Breakthrough T1D, to the children and families affected by this disease and to the shared hope that we will find a cure! Reserve your spot today ONLINE! Tables and tickets are now available to purchase online!  Individual tickets are $325 or purchase a table for ten guests at $3,000.  Share this year’s Dream Gala Invitation and RSVP Response Card with your friends and family! For questions about the Dream Gala, visit the Dream Gala Website.