Fund A Cure with Erika Young | Breakthrough T1D Los Angeles Gala 2025

About Erika Young

I was not quite sure what Type 1 Diabetes was upon hearing my diagnosis from a hospital bed on Christmas Eve. At 26 years old I was told I have Type 1 Diabetes and doctors do not know what causes it and there is no cure. A couple of days later I was sent home from the hospital with a pamphlet on Type 1 and luck, I suppose. I was somewhat lost until a coworker of mine mentioned JDRF, now Breakthrough T1D. I found my community and a way to navigate this chronic disease, I found hope that I was no longer alone. Meeting other Type 1 Diabetics and having a wealth of support through Breakthrough T1D made me realize I can turn my sickness into strength. Everyone has bad days, illnesses or not. But it is what you make of those bad days that defines you. From that moment on I decided to not let Type 1 define me and I went on to compete in multiple half marathons, triathlons, a marathon, and countless 50+ mile bike rides and I have not let T1D slow me down, yet!

Living with an illness and disability can be isolating. Thankfully, with the Breakthrough T1D community, it does not have to be.

Your donations and support are going towards research for a cure in hopes for a bright and positive future for millions of people who are touched by Type 1 Diabetes. For more information on how to get involved and to purchase tickets to our One Night Gala please visit LA One Night Gala – Southern California Chapter

I would be honored to have your support as we continue to find a cure.

Thank you,

Erika Young