At Breakthrough T1D, our mission is to accelerate life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent, and treat type 1 diabetes (T1D) and its complications. As T1D doesn’t discriminate, we advocate for equitable healthcare for all whose lives are impacted by the disease, no matter who they are or where they live.

Fostering a community of culture and belonging is a priority. As such, during Black History Month, we recognize our Black friends, family, and colleagues who help advance our mission.

This month, we shine the spotlight on Cassandra Bazile, Ph.D., an accomplished scientist at Breakthrough T1D who champions community, mentorship, and inclusion in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).

A budding scientist finds her garden

Cassandra’s journey to a career in science began at Morgan State University (MSU), a historically Black institution in Baltimore, Maryland. Thanks to the Research Initiative for Scientific Enhancement (RISE) Program, she was introduced to the world of biomedical research from early in her academic career. While completing her studies, she found unforgettable support and mentorship in her professors at MSU, who offered Cassandra guidance on the many career possibilities within STEM.

“Their guidance played a pivotal role in shaping my academic and professional journey, encouraging me to pursue research and further my education. Their support not only helped me navigate my own path but also inspired my dedication to mentoring and uplifting others from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM,” she explained.

On to bigger and better pastures

After completing her undergraduate degree and working as a research technician at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cassandra pursued her Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. There, she studied B cells—immune cells that make antibodies and contribute to the development of several autoimmune diseases, including Lupus and T1D.

Cassandra’s increasing passion for understanding autoimmune disease combined with first-hand experience having an older cousin with T1D led her to pursue her current position at Breakthrough T1D. Now, she applies her unique scientific skillset to accelerate therapies that prevent, halt, or reverse T1D. She also finds fulfillment in engaging with the T1D community and deepening her appreciation of what it’s like to live with the disease.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of my role…is interacting with the community and sharing updates on exciting research […]. These conversations…not only allow me to inform and inspire others but also offer critical insights into the unmet needs of those living with T1D,” Cassandra explained.

The garden is growing, but there are still some weeds

As a Black woman in a largely white, male-dominated field, Cassandra’s secret to success is finding a strong community and assembling a mentorship network. Since the moment Cassandra knew she wanted to be a scientist, she’s learned a lot—the ability to advocate for herself is paramount, as is helping others navigate their own paths. Building these supportive connections within her community and becoming a mentor herself has been instrumental in driving her career forward.

While the scientific community has made progress in increasing representation of members of the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community, more work needs to be done. Culminating from her experiences, Cassandra suggests greater access to opportunities and mentorship in addition to fostering inclusive work environments.

“Addressing bias, building support networks, and advocating for systemic change within institutions can create a more welcoming space and cultivate an environment that encourages growth and innovation.”

– Cassandra Bazile, Ph.D.

At Breakthrough T1D, thanks to excellent scientists like Cassandra, every day we drive toward cures for T1D and make life with the disease better for the people who face it. This can only be achieved with a true diversity of thought, which happens when the best and brightest minds, from all backgrounds, come together.

The leadership, staff, and volunteers of Breakthrough T1D mourn the tragic, sudden loss of five type 1 diabetes (T1D) champions on Friday, Nov. 1, 2024. 

That night, five people who were pillars of the Breakthrough T1D Ride community died in a tragic, single-car accident.

The group included two married couples and one single individual—all very close friends and veteran Breakthrough T1D Ride participants.

All five people were inside the vehicle at the time of the accident—no one was riding a bicycle at the time.

The greatest group of people you wish you didn’t need to know

Understandably, the tragedy sent shockwaves through the tight-knit Ride community, as well as the entire Breakthrough T1D organization.

Chris Eaton, a lead volunteer partner of Breakthrough T1D Ride and the Ride Advisory Council, knew all five people well. 

“It’s said, ‘Ride is the greatest group of people you wish you didn’t need to know.’ Our friends embodied that feeling of inclusion, hope, and a steadfast focus on getting to a cure,” said Chris. “They will be sorely missed by their family, friends, and the Ride community.”   

Jeff and Michelle Bauer

Jeff and Michelle Bauer were highly involved in Breakthrough T1D Ride—especially Michelle.

“The Breakthrough T1D Ride program is a family, and Michelle exemplified this day in and day out,” said Anthony Geraci, National Director, Ride & Endurance.”  

Michelle had been a dedicated T1D advocate since her son, Jesse Alswager, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2000 at the age of 3. Tragically and unexpectedly, Jesse passed away at the age of 13 on February 3, 2010. 

After Jesse passed away, Michelle continued to advocate, educate, and push the envelope in his name. In honor of Jesse, the date he died—and generally all people who have passed away from T1D—Mile 23 of each Breakthrough T1D Ride is ridden in silence. 

“Whether it was riding thousands of miles in memory of her late son Jesse, authoring a book to help grieving families, bringing her husband Jeff Bauer into the Ride family, to joining the Ride Advisory Council, Michelle was all in,” added Anthony. 

In her spare time, Michelle had numerous other T1D-focused projects, including “Jesse Was Here,” which encompassed her work with other families around the world who had lost loved ones to T1D. 

Jeff proposed to Michelle in 2018 at Mile 23 of a Breakthrough T1D Ride.

The couple had a lake house in Crandon, Wisconsin, and spent a lot of time there. They were avid boaters.

Jeff and Michelle are survived by their blended family of five children—Alexander Bauer, Claudia Bauer, Samantha Alswager, Joseph Alswager and Sara Alswager—all of whom are now adults. 

Learn more about Jeff and Michelle and how to honor their lives.

“When I mentioned to Michelle off the cuff that I was thinking about completing my first Ironman, she was the first to offer up being my coach and cheerleader. The last text message I got from Michelle was on Wednesday of last week simply saying ‘Did you do it yet??’ That’s how I’ll remember Michelle. Always pushing people to be their best. Always pushing herself to be her best.”  

Anthony Geraci
National Director, Breakthrough T1D Ride and Endurance

Josh and Tammy Stahl

Josh and Tammy Stahl became close friends with the Bauers through the Ride program. They rode together most recently in La Crosse last August.

Josh started riding in 2011 for his and Tammy’s son, Gavin (now 17 years old) who lives with T1D. Josh had competed in 13 rides including, Lake Tahoe, La Crosse, and Death Valley. 

“I’ve been fortunate enough to talk to Josh and Tammy at rides for over a decade,” said Dan Woolf, Executive Director of Breakthrough T1D’s Wisconsin Chapter who has long been involved with Ride. “Most recently in La Crosse, where we traded stories of our spirit jerseys, kids, and what makes the Ride program special, which are the friends you make along the way.”

Josh and Tammy are survived by their sons Gavin Stahl and Blake Stahl.

Learn more about Josh and Tammy and how to honor their lives.

“The Stahls were the perfect example of that incredible spirit.They became close friends with so many people from all over the country while making such a difference for our Ride community, which is truly inspiring to me. It’s something that I’ll never forget and a testament to what wonderful people they were.”

Dan Woolf
Executive Director, Breakthrough T1D Wisconsin Chapter

Barry Sievers

Barry’s first Ride was 10 years ago. He had completed five rides including La Crosse, Nashville, and Loveland.

While he had no direct T1D connection, he was always willing to help with a smile. He hosted training rides at his house and even helped transport bikes with his trailer.  

“Barry’s infectious smile and boundless energy embodied our Team Wisconsin spirit,” wrote Joe Brady and Scott Hagen in a statement they issued together. 

Joe lives with T1D and is a veteran Ride coach. Scott is Barry’s best friend who recruited him for his first ride a decade ago.

Barry was the Senior Financial Manager for the Institute for Clinical and Translational Research at the University of Wisconsin—Madison.

Barry is survived by his adult son, David T. Sievers, and two school-age daughters, Emma Sievers and Addison Sievers.

Learn more about Barry and how to honor his life. 

“Whether opening his home for summer training rides, spinning tales on the team bus to Nashville, or cheering on the last rider at the Loveland finish line, Barry brought joy and camaraderie to every moment. Always ready with a solution to any bike issue, his ‘can do’ attitude inspired us all to push harder, fundraise better, and pedal faster toward our goals. Barry’s good-natured warmth and easy laughter will forever be cherished and missed.”

Statement from Joe Brady and Scott Hagen

Against many headwinds

“Greg Lemond, winner of the Tour de France, once said about cycling: ‘It doesn’t get easier, you just go faster,’” said Chris Eaton. 

“Against many headwinds, this group of friends led a community that embodies the imperative that we can, and will, cure type 1 diabetes despite the challenges. They will be missed.”

L-R: Matt Varey, Martin Thibodeau, Royal Bank of Canada Regional President, British Columbia, and Dave Prowten, former Breakthrough T1D Canada President and CEO

Matt Varey, the newly elected Vice Chair of the Breakthrough T1D International Board of Directors (IBOD), brings a global voice as the first Canadian and the first person outside of the U.S. to serve in the role.

Matt, a senior executive at the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), began volunteering with Breakthrough T1D Canada in 2001. Since then, he has served on Breakthrough T1D’s International Board of Directors and as Chair of the Board of Breakthrough T1D Canada.

He resides with his wife, Dr. Andrea Jack, in Oakville, Ontario, Canada.

Breakthrough T1D sat down with Matt to learn more about his volunteer journey and unique global perspective.

What led you to start volunteering for Breakthrough T1D?

In 2001, I returned to Canada from professional commitments abroad and witnessed colleagues and personal friends whose lives were affected by type 1 diabetes (T1D). I couldn’t just stand by and watch; I had to do anything I could to support them—not just on a personal level but also in a broader capacity. At that time, RBC started a coast-to-coast initiative with Breakthrough T1D Canada, and I recognized I had new ways to make a difference. That started this purposeful journey I have been on with Breakthrough T1D.

What are some of the roles have you had within the organization?

My first involvement with Breakthrough T1D was as a rider in the 2001 Breakthrough T1D Toronto Ride for a Cure. That led to my joining the Toronto Ride cabinet with other business leaders and, later, my becoming Chair of the Breakthrough T1D Ride.

In 2008, I was appointed a Board Member of Breakthrough T1D Canada. From 2014 to 2016, I served as the Chair of Breakthrough T1D Canada. To this date, I remain on the Board of Breakthrough T1D Canada, having taken on different mandates, including Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee and Chair of the Investment Committee.

Since 2016, I have been a Board member of Breakthrough T1D International, serving in various capacities, including member of the Breakthrough T1D International Finance Committee and Chair of the Breakthrough T1D International Audit and Risk Committee.

Do any of your experiences at Breakthrough T1D Canada stand out?

Every moment supporting this meaningful mission is special, and one of the highlights was my role as Chair of Breakthrough T1D Canada from 2014 to 2016. I was directly involved in the purposeful journey of making a difference for over 350,000 Canadians living with T1D, stewarding this cause for Breakthrough T1D Canada as a Canadian. In 2017, in conjunction with the CHIR (Canadian Health Institute Research) and our incredible team under the leadership of former President and CEO of Breakthrough T1D Canada Dave Prowten, we secured a 30-million grant from the Government of Canada to support Breakthrough T1D research and scholastic advancements in Canada.

Do you feel you will offer a unique perspective to IBOD as a person who lives in Canada? 

Breakthrough T1D is a global organization on a journey of purpose. I’m excited and grateful to extend the reach of that journey. Canada is world-renowned for diabetes research and breakthroughs—the first genetically engineered human insulin was discovered and manufactured in Canada, after all! It is the responsibility of all Canadians to carry that flame of innovation and discovery, so I feel even more of an obligation as a Canadian on the Breakthrough T1D IBOD to carry that baton forward.

Why are volunteers so essential to our mission?

Grassroots volunteering is empowering and essential to the success of all nonprofit organizations. Breakthrough T1D volunteers keep us close to the cause and the people impacted by the disease—their care, passion, and dedication will help spread our purpose across the globe.

What does the future of T1D look like to you?

We have seen so much progress in recent years, and it will continue at an even faster pace. Cell therapies are an exciting focus area for Breakthrough T1D. I’m eager to see where that research takes us, particularly eliminating the need for immunosuppressant drugs.

Clinical trials show the possibilities for disease-modifying therapies to preserve beta cell function in people newly diagnosed with T1D. Today, we can delay the onset of T1D, and I’m confident tomorrow, we’ll be able to stop it! Scientists are finding ways to make insulin work smarter and work in conjunction with other drugs for better and safer disease management. There are so many ways Breakthrough T1D is improving the lives of people with T1D—treatments and therapies will continue to advance until we reach our ultimate goal: cures.

What does the future of Breakthrough T1D look like to you?

We are purposefully seeking opportunities for Breakthrough T1D to achieve more breakthrough research and facilitate diabetes education and knowledge globally. As an organization with a global reach, it is our responsibility to enable more access to research, education, and awareness in every corner of the world to help everyone understand the disease, navigate it, and support those impacted by it.

L-R: Neil, Perry, Sydney, Harris, and Lisa Wallack

Lisa F. Wallack is the newly elected Chair of the Breakthrough T1D International Board of Directors (IBOD). Her appointment holds distinction: she is the first Chair to have a parent previously serve in the role.

Lisa’s involvement with Breakthrough T1D started in the early 1970s after her younger brother, Scott, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in 1969 at the age of 18 months. Lisa’s parents, Marilyn and Gerald Fishbone, were among the founders of Breakthrough T1D (then known as “JDF”) in the early 1970s, and her late father served as IBOD Chair from 1983 to 1986. Her passion for T1D advocacy was amplified when her son, Harris, was diagnosed in 2001 at the age of 5.

Lisa is a force at Breakthrough T1D, having served in nearly every volunteer leadership role locally, nationally, and internationally. She was President of the Greater New England Chapter and has been a member of Breakthrough T1D’s IBOD for nine years, helping with governance, strategy, and fundraising. Her leadership efforts were recognized in 2019 with the Jim Tyree Chairman’s Award, and Lisa and her husband, Neil, are being honored at the Breakthrough T1D Greater New England Chapter 2024 Gala for their unwavering dedication to the T1D community.

Breakthrough T1D sat down with Lisa to discuss carrying on her family’s legacy of volunteerism and her hopes for the organization’s future.

Your appointment as the new Breakthrough T1D IBOD Chair must feel like a full-circle moment since your father served in the role more than 30 years ago. How did your parents inspire you to be a leader, and what do you hope to carry on from them?

I grew up watching my parents devote countless hours to building this organization to engage other people impacted by T1D, build a community to support one another, and inspire and enable them to work together to raise awareness and funds to invest in type 1 diabetes cures.

My mom, who founded Breakthrough T1D’s New Haven Chapter and remains an active champion today, has modeled for me how to be an authentic and successful fundraiser driven by our passion to cure our loved ones and the millions of others whose lives have been impacted by T1D.

People say my father always made everyone feel like the most important person in the room. He has inspired me to be a strong but humble leader, to listen to others, and to work to bring out the best in them.

You have extensive experience working with many non-profit boards. What unique perspectives do you hope to bring to the IBOD as a female leader?

Women bring to the table a willingness to listen and collaborate without letting their egos drive the agenda. I want to engage the diverse perspectives of our T1D community and work together to leverage our experiences, insights, and networks to grow Breakthrough T1D’s reach and impact.

What opportunities lie ahead for Breakthrough T1D and the T1D community?

I see Breakthrough T1D being more reflective of the diverse community of those impacted with T1D, engaging people of all ages and stages of life with T1D from different communities around the U.S. and worldwide.

Ninety percent of those living with T1D are adults. We need to show the adult T1D community that we are relevant to them, to demonstrate the role that Breakthrough T1D has played in improving their lives, and to engage them in our quest to conquer the disease for good. We also need to look beyond the United States to strategically engage donors and governments to invest resources in Breakthrough T1D and our mission to accelerate our progress.

You have served in nearly every volunteer role possible at Breakthrough T1D. Do any roles stand out to you?

Lisa and her husband Neil, who together have raised over $1.4 million for T1D research

I really enjoy the work I have done at our local Breakthrough T1D chapter, reaching out to newly diagnosed families and introducing them to the Breakthrough T1D community and the progress that we are making.

I’m a passionate fundraiser, asking everyone we know to support Breakthrough T1D each year. My husband Neil’s participation in marathons, Breakthrough T1D Rides, and Ironman competitions inspired many others to support our cause. To date, we have raised over $1.4 million from our efforts!

I enjoyed my many roles on the Breakthrough T1D IBOD, from ensuring our governance structure is as effective and efficient as possible to working with our extraordinary professional leadership team to develop and implement the most impactful strategy to accelerate our mission.

How do you hope to inspire the Breakthrough T1D volunteer community in your new role?

Volunteers are the key to Breakthrough T1D’s success. We are the army that raises the funds needed to achieve our mission goals. We are a community that supports one another, sharing learnings and experiences to help others cope and engage them in our shared fight.

Learning from my parents, I have always valued volunteerism as a way to have an impact and to find fulfillment. Leaning in as a volunteer at Breakthrough T1D has given me a sense of empowerment and the strength, resilience, and hope to know that together we can conquer T1D. Being part of this amazing community and this impactful organization is deeply meaningful and inspiring.

Being involved with Breakthrough T1D for nearly 50 years gives you a unique perspective. How does living with T1D differ from the past to the present? What do you think it will look like in the future?

Lisa and her brother Scott, who has lived with T1D for over 50 years

Breakthrough T1D’s strategic leadership has led to the many advances that have made it safer and easier to live with T1D. When my brother was diagnosed in 1969, there was only urine testing and syringes and no blood sugar testing or insulin pump technology. Today, we have CGMs and closed-loop insulin delivery systems that have reduced the burden of living with T1D for Scott and Harris, as well as for Neil and me as caregivers.

I look forward to the day that Scott, Harris, and everyone with T1D will not need to depend on technology to live. I feel that day is getting ever closer as we drive the development of new disease-modifying and cell therapies that will enable us to prevent and cure T1D.

Lisa Fishbone Wallack, an attorney by training and long-time volunteer leader in the greater New England area, will serve as Breakthrough T1D International Board of Directors (IBOD) Chair, succeeding current Chair Grant Beard. Matt Varey, a senior executive at Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) and dedicated volunteer leader in the greater Toronto, Canada, area, will serve as Breakthrough T1D IBOD Vice Chair, succeeding current Vice Chair Michelle Griffin.   

Lisa’s and Matt’s terms as Chair and Vice Chair, respectively, begin Monday, July 1, 2024. 

Lisa Fishbone Wallack Continues Family’s Legacy of Championing Breakthrough T1D’s Mission 

Lisa is a long-time volunteer leader of Breakthrough T1D’s Greater New England Chapter, first getting involved with Breakthrough T1D when her parents Marilyn and Dr. Gerald Fishbone were among the founders of Breakthrough T1D (then known as “JDF”) after her brother Scott was diagnosed with T1D in 1969 at the age of 18 months, and then increasing her involvement after her son Harris was diagnosed in 2001 at the age of 5.   

 Locally, Lisa has served as President of the Greater New England Chapter Board and remains active with the chapter. Nationally, she has been a member of the IBOD for nine years and has served as Vice Chair of the IBOD, as Chair of the Talent and Compensation Committee, and as Chair of the Nominating and Governance Committee.     

Lisa is an attorney by training and is a volunteer leader at numerous other community organizations, leading annual, capital, and comprehensive campaigns and strategic committees.    

Lisa and her husband Neil are proud to be leadership donors to Breakthrough T1D as well as donors to Breakthrough T1D’s T1D Fund. She and her family participate in all Breakthrough T1D programs, including the Walk and Gala, and she supports Neil’s participation in endurance events including the Boston Marathon, the Breakthrough T1D Ride program, and Ironman Triathlons, which collectively have raised more than $1.4 million for Breakthrough T1D.  

For their outstanding and continued support of Breakthrough T1D, Lisa and Neil will be honored at the Greater New England Chapter’s Gala on Saturday, April 6.  

Lisa graduated with a B.A. in The Biological Basis of Behavior from the University of Pennsylvania and with a J.D., summa cum laude, from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law. In addition to their son Harris, Lisa and Neil have a son Perry and a daughter Sydney. They live in Weston, Massachusetts.  

Matt Varey Leads and Engages Breakthrough T1D’s T1D Community   

Matt Varey is currently a senior executive at Royal Bank of Canada (RBC)—the largest financial institution in Canada and one of the largest and most trusted in the world.   

As Senior Vice President, Matt is responsible for national leadership of more than 4,500 Canada-based employees entrusted with important client life events including personal investments, mortgage financing and group benefits, totaling more than $100 billion of human trust annually. Prior to joining RBC in 1987 and taking on a wide range of senior management and executive positions within RBC, Matt was Vice President and General Manager of RBC Suisse, RBC’s Global Private Banking operations in Geneva, Switzerland.    

 Matt is an ardent supporter of Breakthrough T1D’s commitment to improving the lives of every person living with T1D and driving breakthroughs to cure the condition. His association and commitment to Breakthrough T1D started in 2001 and he currently serves on the Breakthrough T1D International Board of Directors and Breakthrough T1D Canada Board of Directors. His diverse international leadership experience will be instrumental in continuing Breakthrough T1D’s purposeful global mission and navigating the organization’s path forward in partnership with his Breakthrough T1D Board of Directors colleagues.  

 His previous Board responsibilities included Chair of the Board of Breakthrough T1D Canada and Board member of the Mutual Fund Dealers Association of Canada.   

Matt graduated from McMaster University and currently resides in Oakville, Ontario, Canada, with his wife, Dr. Andrea Jack.   

An Era of Unprecedented Breakthroughs 

This new leadership coincides with an era of unprecedented T1D breakthroughs championed by Breakthrough T1D.  

“We are in a golden age of advanced medicine and continue to see incredible progress in T1D cures research—in both disease-modifying therapies and cell therapies,” said Aaron J. Kowalski, Ph.D., Breakthrough T1D Chief Executive Officer. “As the leaders of our International Board of Directors, Lisa and Matt will ensure we will continue to drive cures and other life-changing breakthroughs forward through scientific advancements and advocacy.”   

“We thank Grant and Michelle, who amplified our global efforts to improve lives and accelerate cures. There has never been a more exciting time for our mission as cures are now a matter of when, not a matter of if,” Kowalski said. “The potential for transformation is nothing short of electrifying and we look forward to the progress to come during Lisa’s and Matt’s tenure.”    

About the Breakthrough T1D International Board of Directors (IBOD)  

IBOD is the governing body for Breakthrough T1D and is tasked with accelerating the organization’s mission progress toward life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent, and treat T1D and its complications. Learn more about Breakthrough T1D’s volunteer and staff leadership.

Cynthia Rice, Breakthrough T1D’s Chief Mission Strategy Officer, will leave behind quite a legacy once she steps down from her role at Breakthrough T1D at the end of March 2023.

“In her time with Breakthrough T1D, she has led with strategic purpose and passion,” read Breakthrough T1D CEO Aaron Kowalski’s December 2022 memo announcing Cynthia’s decision to leave. “She has been an incredibly valuable partner to me, as well as staff and volunteers throughout the organization.”

During her tenure at Breakthrough T1D, she has helped bring the artificial pancreas project to life, has driven efforts to renew the Special Diabetes Program, and was a key player in Breakthrough T1D’s response to and handling of COVID-19—all with the partnership of our strategic staff and vast network of volunteers, who are the bedrock of our advocacy efforts.

“It’s possible—while challenging—to impact the research and development (R&D) ecosystem to improve options and outcomes for people living with chronic diseases like type 1 diabetes,” says Cynthia. “Defining goals, tapping into strengths, building capacities, and remaining determined in the face of obstacles are critical.”

And for nearly two decades, she has done just that at Breakthrough T1D.

“Leverage—enlisting others to our cause—is critical to our success and core to our organizational DNA, whether it’s engaging friends and families, company R&D heads, government officials, or foundation leaders,” Cynthia says.

The Artificial Pancreas Endeavor

From Left: Breakthrough T1D International Board of Directors member Claudia Graham, Ph.D., M.P.H.; Breakthrough T1D Chief Mission Strategy Officer Cynthia Rice; and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME). Left-click on image to slightly enlarge.

Cynthia came to Breakthrough T1D in September 2005. Real-time continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) were in the early stages of development, with one approved just months prior.

Aaron Kowalski, Ph.D., who had come to Breakthrough T1D a year before and is now the CEO, and Jeffrey Brewer, a member of Breakthrough T1D’s International Board of Directors at the time, had just spent six months interviewing academic scientists, corporate executives, and other like-minded players to figure out whether Breakthrough T1D wanted to take on the development of an artificial pancreas. There were many barriers, and companies were very wary of getting involved.

In the interviews, it became clear that despite the hesitation among companies, there was significant potential benefit for the T1D community in pursuing artificial pancreas technologies. The leadership—needed to foster a therapy roadmap, research funding, regulatory pathway, and health care access—just wasn’t there.

Breakthrough T1D changed that. We made it a priority, bringing not only our research funding, but also our powerful advocacy forces, to speed the development of these devices.

“The goal of multiple artificial pancreas systems, with ongoing innovation, drove our strategy,” says Cynthia, “and we took actions early on with that goal in mind, utilizing our strengths, building new capacities and relationships, and battling doggedly to overcome obstacles.”

Overcoming the Obstacles

Among the first obstacles was that the benefits of continuous glucose monitoring in the management of T1D had only been shown in small studies. In 2008, a Breakthrough T1D multi-site randomized control clinical trial showed that people with T1D who used the devices experienced significant improvement in blood-sugar control. This was instrumental to CGM coverage and laying the groundwork for the artificial pancreas system to come to fruition and be covered by the healthcare system.

Another obstacle was linking together the two main components of a closed-loop artificial pancreas system—the glucose sensor and an insulin pump. Breakthrough T1D established the Artificial Pancreas Consortium, which connected researchers from several different laboratories to develop the computer algorithms so that the machines could “talk” to each other and then be commercialized, as necessary.

A third obstacle—perhaps the most challenging of them all—required engaging government, regulatory, and health care groups.

Breakthrough T1D worked with researchers, insurance companies, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Medicare, and Congress on regulatory and coverage issues. When the first artificial pancreas system came on the market in 2016, the T1D community was more than ready for the life-changing T1D management it offered.

“Seeing the artificial pancreas go from concept to reality, which is helping so many people keep their blood-sugar management in control, is what makes Breakthrough T1D and all of the advocacy volunteers—who sent an email, made a call, signed an action alert, or met with their Member of Congress—very proud of this historic achievement and the impact that these will have on the individual lives of those with type 1 diabetes,” Cynthia adds.

The Special Diabetes Program (SDP)

Cynthia Rice (far right, fifth row from the back), Breakthrough T1D volunteers, and Delegates at Children’s Congress 2013 with then-Vice President of the United States Joseph R. Biden (center). Left-click on image to slightly enlarge.

In 1997, with the bipartisan leadership of White House Chief of Staff Erskine Bowles and Speaker Newt Gingrich, Congress created the Special Diabetes Program (SDP), which annually allocates $150 million for T1D research at the NIH. Breakthrough T1D is the chief advocate of the SDP.

The SDP has been instrumental to some of the greatest advancements in the history of T1D—including research that led to artificial pancreas systems and the recent FDA approval of the first-ever drug that can delay onset of T1D, Tzield™ (teplizumab-mzwv).

Since its inception, the SDP has invested $3.4 billion into T1D research. The program’s success and continued renewal is the result in part of hundreds of Breakthrough T1D advocates meeting with their Members of Congress each year to discuss the importance of the SDP.

“Sustaining bipartisan support to renew again and again in challenging times in Washington is thanks to the amazing volunteer-staff partnership in advocacy,” says Cynthia. “This is now paying enormous dividends, not only in the artificial pancreas systems, but in cures therapies, including disease-modifying and cell therapy treatments.”

Breakthrough T1D’s Unique Strengths

“Breakthrough T1D has two strengths that are rare,” says Cynthia. “The first is scientific expertise, convening the best and brightest across fields and generating ideas to solve the biggest problems. The second is community passion, to influence R&D priorities, regulatory pathways, and health care access and enlist government leaders to take action for our cause.”

She adds: “Breakthrough T1D has harnessed these strengths and organized the community, leading to our higher-level power: Influence.”

“It’s not only possible but realizable for a small band of determined people, starting with our founding moms, to tackle and overcome big obstacles,” says Cynthia. “As long as we organize ourselves well, deploy smart strategies, and develop an advocacy message that people can get around, Breakthrough T1D will continue to have the impact that has historically been the pillar of our advocacy work.”

“More broadly, strong patient advocacy strengthens our health system and our society and helps align incentives in research, development, and health policy to benefit the people affected by the disease,” says Cynthia. “All of us as leaders should be thinking about what else we can do to help strong, independent patient communities come together and thrive as advocates, which I hope to do when I return to the health sector in 2024 after a sabbatical.”

A Legacy of Women Leaders

Breakthrough T1D was founded by women, has mostly women staff and volunteers, and counts numerous successful and influential women among its current and past leaders and supporters.

Women who, like Cynthia Rice, share Breakthrough T1D’s vision for a world without T1D and who will stop at nothing to turn that vision into reality.   

“From the majority staff and volunteer base, to our women founders, to our international chair Mary Tyler Moore, to our advocates, fundraisers, and scientists,” says Cynthia, “Breakthrough T1D, as an organization, shows the power women can have to impact their world.”

Members of Breakthrough T1D’s Grassroots Leadership Team (GLT) along with members of Breakthrough T1D’s Advocacy Team, including Cynthia Rice (ninth person in from the right) at Breakthrough T1D Government Day 2023. Left-click on image to slightly enlarge.

Cynthia Rice at Government Day 2023. Left-click on image to slightly enlarge.

Mary Tyler Moore would have been proud to have an award recognizing women who have made pioneering contributions to the fight against type 1 diabetes (T1D). Now, such an award exists!

Presented by Breakthrough T1D, the new award honors the legacy of trailblazer and cultural icon Mary Tyler Moore, who was diagnosed with T1D at the age of 33. As international chairman of Breakthrough T1D from 1984 to 2017, Moore used her influence to bring government, scientists, and people living with diabetes together to further T1D advocacy and innovation.

The award highlights the leadership of women who, like Mary, question the status quo, bravely take risks, and drive changes to improve the lives of those living with T1D.

The inaugural award goes to some of the most powerful women in the United States government who are fighting T1D: Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Representative Diana DeGette (D-CO). Each has provided exemplary leadership, demonstrated the strongest allyship to the T1D community, and has championed and passed legislation that will improve the lives of those living with T1D. These include the Special Diabetes Program (SDP)—which funds $150 million to diabetes research per year—and insulin affordability, including a cap on the price of insulin at $35 per month for Medicare enrollees.

“When most of the world thinks of Mary, they immediately picture Laurie Petrie from ‘The Dick Van Dyke Show’ or Mary Richards from the ‘Mary Tyler Moore Show’ — or many of the numerous other roles she played,” said S. Robert Levine, M.D., her husband of more than 30 years and longtime leading Breakthrough T1D volunteer. “But the biggest role she took on was her profoundly effective advocacy for support for federal funding of research to find cures for T1D and its complications, and her commitment to the T1D community.”  

“I am truly touched that the inaugural award in her name celebrates three government leaders—Susan Collins, Jeanne Shaheen, and Diana DeGette—who partnered with Mary to assure more federal funding of T1D research, including the funding of critical research resources, consortia, and clinical trial networks to bring us closer to cures,” Dr. Levine added.

One of Moore’s most significant achievements as Breakthrough T1D international chairman was increased Congressional funding for the Special Diabetes Program (SDP) at the National Institutes of Health that has accelerated the pace of T1D research. This long-term investment in diabetes research has helped lead to significant scientific breakthroughs, including Tzield™ (teplizumab-mzwv), the first disease-modifying treatment for T1D which can delay the onset of the disease by more than two years.

“Thanks to the enduring efforts of Mary Tyler Moore, we are bringing new treatments forward and moving closer every day to cures for type 1 diabetes and its complications,” said Cynthia Rice, Breakthrough T1D’s chief mission strategy officer. “Senators Collins and Shaheen and Representative DeGette have been steadfast allies in Congress to the T1D community. Breakthrough T1D is proud to recognize their work as they carry Mary Tyler Moore’s legacy forward.”

As reported in Harvard Business Review, “Research has shown that firms with more women in senior positions are more profitable, more socially responsible, and provide safer, higher-quality customer experiences—among many other benefits.”  

It should be no surprise then that Breakthrough T1D, the leading global nonprofit funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research, has promoted two more women on its executive leadership team: Kathleen Seitz and Sydney Yovic. 

Breakthrough T1D has ambitious but strategic goals to further amplify its role as a global leader in the T1D space. Promoting both high performing, innovative-thinking women to more senior leadership roles maps directly to those goals. 

Kathleen Seitz 

Breakthrough T1D is pleased to announce that Kathleen Seitz, Senior Vice President, Global Development, has been promoted to Chief Global Development Officer overseeing the field network, volunteer engagement and all contributed revenue sources. 

With more than 25 years of development experience, Kathleen has worked with a cross-section of nonprofits, including cultural, healthcare, human service, secondary and higher education, and religious organizations. She has significant expertise in volunteer management, fundraising staff recruitment and training, and strategic fundraising planning. Kathleen also received her Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) designation in 2019.  

In her short time with Breakthrough T1D, Kathleen has already made an immediate impact, growing and guiding her team so they are well-positioned to maximize our revenue and build a global development strategy to increase Breakthrough T1D’s global footprint and presence. 

As Chief Global Development Officer, Kathleen will lead Breakthrough T1D’s efforts to maximize initiatives and raise more funds to advance our mission in the United States and globally. We look forward to the positive impact Kathleen will continue to have on Breakthrough T1D and the T1D community as she drives continual improvement of fundraising strategies and engagement in Breakthrough T1D programs. 

 Sydney Yovic 

Breakthrough T1D is pleased to announce that Sydney Yovic, Chief of Staff, has been promoted to the position of Chief Strategy Officer and Chief of Staff. 

Sydney has been a valuable, results-driven leader for Breakthrough T1D for over 10 years, having started as Project Manager in the Research department and taken on roles of increasing responsibility since then. She continues to be an incredibly valuable partner to staff and volunteers throughout the organization.  

In her newly expanded role, Sydney will lead and drive Breakthrough T1D’s strategy and organizational priorities to help shape our future vision and propel our mission forward. Sydney will continue to be a tremendous asset as she develops strategic plans, implements impact measures, and centralizes resources to ensure Breakthrough T1D is operating at the highest levels of effectiveness and efficiency. 

Breakthrough T1D and the T1D community will continue to benefit from Sydney’s strong leadership skills as she works to ensure Breakthrough T1D’s organizational strategies, processes, tools, systems and offerings are well-positioned to drive continual improvement, growth, and impact. 

The Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists (ADCES) goal is to improve diabetes outcomes through innovative education, management, and support, and it has over 12,000 members. Each year, they give out a number of awards. These are a big deal. And, this year, the 2023 Diabetes Care and Education Specialist of the Year Award is going to <drumroll please> Anastasia Albanese-O’Neill, Ph.D., APRN, CDCES, Breakthrough T1D’s director of community screening and clinical trials education!

The award recognizes a diabetes specialist who has made a special contribution through dedication and innovation in the daily practice of patient care. And, oh, has Anastasia made a profound contribution! Let’s take a look:

• She has been actively involved in diabetes care, education, advocacy, and research—including being a Breakthrough T1D volunteer for the past two decades—since 2002, when her daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes
• Anastasia is a licensed and board-certified pediatric nurse practitioner, certified diabetes care and education specialist, and certified to train people with diabetes on how to use insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), and automated insulin delivery systems (also known as artificial pancreas systems)
• She has been an avid diabetes advocate since 2002 and has spoken at congressional hearings, the White House, and in the Florida legislature
• She served as co-chair for the American Diabetes Association’s Safe at School Working Group, and was a co-author for guidelines related to diabetes management in the school setting
• Anastasia recently founded a Florida-based nonprofit, Diabetes Toolkit, designed to support the diabetes education provided in clinic

And I could go on and on…but I won’t. (But she’s got a resumé that would make anyone’s head swirl!)

The award was given to her at the ADCES Annual Conference on August 12-15, 2022. The award also provides a cash prize and a commemorative plaque.

Please applaud Anastasia on her congratulatory and well-deserved honor!

Jennifer Bennett, managing director and associate general counsel in the Office of the Corporate Secretary for Bank of America Corporation in Charlotte, North Carolina, has been appointed Chair of the Breakthrough T1D Global Mission Board (GMB), effective July 1, 2022.

The Breakthrough T1D GMB also welcomes new members Meredith Coors (Mountain West Chapter), Laura Cramer (Mid-Atlantic Chapter), Maarten de Groot (Breakthrough T1D Netherlands), Gwen Malone (Pacific Northwest Chapter) and David Schwab (Mid-Atlantic Chapter), to help drive mission progress through volunteer engagement.

The Breakthrough T1D GMB, created in 2019, is a group of volunteer leaders who collaborate with staff leaders to advance Breakthrough T1D’s mission through special initiatives in research, advocacy, fundraising, and community engagement. Jennifer will be the second-ever Chair of the GMB, following Kim Roosevelt, who served in the role for the last three years.

Vanguard Volunteer

Jennifer became part of Breakthrough T1D 17 years ago when her child, Rain, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) at the age of three. Her family has participated in the Breakthrough T1D One Walk every year since Rain’s diagnosis.

Jennifer’s dedication to Breakthrough T1D is unmistakable. Jennifer has volunteered in many roles in Breakthrough T1D’s North Carolina Chapter, including as Chapter Board President and Executive Council Chair. At the national level, she previously served on the International Board of Directors (IBOD) and is currently on the IBOD’s Nominating and Governance Committee and the Talent and Compensation Committee. She has been a member of the GMB’s leadership since 2019, heading the fundraising and engagement pillar.

“Our Global Mission Board plays a critical role in Breakthrough T1D’s Mission and in recruiting and engaging volunteers,” said Aaron J. Kowalski, Ph.D., Breakthrough T1D Chief Executive Officer. “I’m confident that our GMB, together with Jennifer and its newest board members, will harness the passion of our volunteers to accelerate our mission progress and move us even closer to a world without type 1 diabetes.”