Breakthrough T1D Cincinnatians of the Year Gala 2026

Type 1 Diabetes has touched my life in ways that are deeply personal. My grandmother lived with T1D. My father, Orlando Brown Sr., passed away from diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), one of the most dangerous complications of this disease. And when my younger brother was diagnosed with T1D at just 11 years old, my family’s journey with this condition became even more real.

Watching the people I love battle T1D, and losing my dad to it, changed me forever. It inspired me to turn my pain into purpose. That’s why I’ve partnered with Breakthrough T1D, an organization dedicated to funding research, advancing treatment options, and improving access to life-saving technology for everyone living with T1D.

This year, I’m deeply honored to serve as the 2026 Breakthrough T1D Cincinnatian of the Year Honoree. This recognition is not just about me; it’s about every family who has faced the challenges of T1D with courage and resilience. It’s about honoring my father’s memory, supporting my brother and countless others who live with this disease every day, and celebrating the progress that gives us hope for a cure. Being part of this incredible community motivates me to keep pushing for change, awareness, and better outcomes for all.

Through my work as an ambassador for Breakthrough T1D, I’ve had the privilege of meeting brave children and families who face this disease every day. I’ve seen incredible progress research is making, and I’ve also seen the urgent need for more. There are still too many families struggling to afford insulin, too many communities lacking access to care and education, and too many lives at risk.

That’s why I’m asking for your partnership today. When you give to Breakthrough T1D, you’re helping fund critical research, provide resources to families, and move us closer to a future without T1D.

I believe in this mission and I’ve even undergone screening myself to understand my own risk, because awareness, prevention, and action matter. Together, we can honor those we’ve lost, support those living with T1D today, and create a better tomorrow for everyone impacted by this disease.

Please join me in this fight. Your donation, no matter the size, fuels hope and helps turn breakthroughs into reality.

With gratitude and hope,

Orlando Brown Jr., NFL Athlete & Breakthrough T1D Ambassador

Petra Vester became involved with Breakthrough T1D after her oldest daughter Hannah was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in 2011 at the age of 16. Petra started volunteering with the South Central Ohio Chapter working on the Gala Committee. She has been part of the gala committee since in many capacities including silent auction and chairing/cochairing the gala.

In 2012, she was convinced to join the ride team. In 2016 she became a ride coach helping others complete their ride goals. Since 2012 she has completed 10 rides with her daughter Hannah and this year will participate in her 24th ride.

She is also a member of the South Central Ohio board as the Advocacy Team Chair.

Petra and her husband Russ live in Cincinnati, Ohio. Hannah just started her residency in Cardio Thoracic Surgery at the University of Cincinnati. They also have 2 other children Sarah and Sam.

For nearly 20 years, professional auctioneer Chris Ward of Ward & Co. Auctions has used his wit, chant, and charm to help nonprofits drive stronger bidder engagement at signature fundraisers. A champion for the auction method, his core belief is simple: giving should feel good. Learn more at WardAuctions.com.