Breakthrough T1D Syracuse Gala 2026 | Presented by Raymour & Flanigan

Featured Event Leadership

Gala Co-Chairs Richard Sykes, Jr. and Megan Coleman Sykes

Richard Sykes, Jr. and Megan Coleman Sykes

Gala Co-Chairs

Eight months ago, our lives were forever changed when our son Henry was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease for which there is currently no cure.

Since his diagnosis, we have worked tirelessly to empower him to learn how to care for himself and navigate this new reality. Despite the immense challenges and essential lifestyle modifications to insure his survival, we are in awe of his ability to embrace this new daily routine that no child should have to endure.

We are honored to serve as co-chairs of the Breakthrough T1D Syracuse Gala on April 10, 2026 at Sky Armory as we partner with Breakthrough T1D, formerly JDRF, in raising awareness and funds to support the incredibly promising research currently underway in search of a cure.

If you would like to make a Fund A Cure donation in honor of the Sykes Family, please click here.

Auction Chair Amy Jukam Himowitz

Amy Jukam Himowitz

Auction Chair

Amy Jukam Himowitz is honored to serve as Auction Chair for the 2026 Syracuse Gala for Breakthrough T1D.

Amy became involved with Breakthrough T1D when her son Will, now 11, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of three. Passionate about accelerating research and improving quality of life for those living with T1D, she is excited to support Breakthrough T1D and the Syracuse community through this year’s event.

If you would like to make a Fund A Cure donation in honor of the Himowitz Family, please click here.

Auctioneer Carrie Hessney

Carrie Hessney

Auctioneer

Carrie Hessney is a dynamic and accomplished professional auctioneer, specializing in fundraising events for non-profits across the Finger Lakes Region of New York and beyond. With a passion for helping organizations exceed their fundraising goals, Carrie has built a reputation as a trusted and energetic auctioneer.

In 2023, she was honored with the title of NYS Auctioneer of the Year and won the 2024 International Auctioneer Reserve Champion. Carrie’s commitment to excellence in her field is reflected in her graduation from the Certified Auctioneers Institute at Indiana University, where she earned the profession’s highest designation, solidifying her position among the industry’s top experts.

Carrie is dedicated to using her auctioneering skills to drive meaningful change within her community, believing strongly in the power of auctions to inspire generosity and impact. Her infectious energy, passion, and expertise ensure every event is a success, making her a go-to choice for fundraising endeavors across the country.

Fund A Cure

2026 Fund A Cure Family Mary, Braylon, and Mia

Mary, Braylon, and Mia

2026 Fund A Cure Family

At this year’s event, we are proud to highlight the story of Mary, Braylon, and Mia.

As the head coach of Binghamton Women’s Basketball, Mary is used to leading strong teams, but nothing prepared her for the moment Braylon was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D), followed four years later by his sister, Mia.

Through every challenge, these two siblings have faced T1D with remarkable courage, supporting each other with a bond that grows stronger every day. Braylon and Mia continue to inspire with their resilience and big spirits, while Mary stands behind them with unwavering love, strength, and hope.

Proudly Honoring

2026 Gala Honorees Athletes with T1D

What to Expect

Attire

Cocktail/Black Tie Optional

Parking 

There is ample parking in downtown Syracuse. SKY Armory recommends Atrium Garage on the corner of Fayette and Clinton Streets. All Parking options can be found on the Downtown Parking Map.

Accessibility note: SKY Armory is set back at the end of ‘Armory Alley’. If you or a guest needs to be dropped off closer to the venue, feel free to pull into the alley and drop them off at the front entrance.

Pre-Registration & Guest Check-In

Please RSVP and pre-register your guests no later than Thursday, April 3rd via the unique link provided by Breakthrough T1D. Providing your information prior to the event gets you early access to bidding on our Silent Auction and ensures a smooth check-in process on the night of the event so you can enjoy the night! In order to receive your mobile bidding link for our Silent Auction, each guest will need to provide a unique mobile phone number.

If you do not pre-register, our volunteers will ask for your information and assign you a bid number when you arrive. You will need a bid number to bid in our silent and live auctions and play our fundraising games such as the Wine Toss and Heads or Tails game (more information on those below).

Food Restrictions

Please email MSteffen@BT1D.org if you have any dietary restrictions or request a vegan/vegetarian meal.

Silent & Live Auctions

Most, but not all silent and live auction items will be on display. Those guests who win an item will be able to pick it up at the end of the evening. For items which require coordination with the donating partner, instructions will be provided.

Wine Toss & Heads or Tails 

For the Wine Toss game, participating guests will be given three rings to toss and three chances to try to hook their chosen bottle in our lineup of top-level wine/ liquor!

The Heads or Tails game will be played during dinner. Guests may buy in for a chance to play on the mobile bidding site. Every guest who chooses to play will stand. Guests choose head or tails by placing their hands on their head or on their “tail.” Our Emcee will flip a coin and guests who chose incorrectly will site back down. Once the room whittles down to the last two guests standing they will join the emcee on stage to play the final round.

Please note: you must RSVP and be registered with a bid number in order to participate. If you do not pre-register using the unique link provided by Breakthrough T1D, you will receive a bid number when you arrive and check-in at the event.

No purchase necessary to participate.

Fund A Cure

Fund A Cure is the unique opportunity for you to change the lives of individuals living with type 1 diabetes. After the Live Auction, when the ballroom is stilled with a story of hope and inspiration, you will be asked to Fund A Cure. This is your chance to make a donation that goes 100% directly to research, is 100% tax deductible, and will fund the science to make medical history.

Event Schedule

6 p.m. Guest Check-in and Cocktail Hour Begins, Silent Auction Open
7:20 p.m. Dinner and Program Begins
8:00 p.m. Live Auction and Fund A Cure
9:30 p.m. Program Concludes
9:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. After Party and Dancing