Fund A Cure with The Joyner Family | Breakthrough T1D Grand Rapids Gala 2026

About

We are the Joyner family — John, Rebecca, and our three sons, John Jr., Beau, and Finn. Our journey with Type 1 diabetes began two days before Christmas, when Beau was diagnosed. It was an overwhelming and frightening time, especially with a long car trip planned just days later.

 From the very beginning, Breakthrough Type 1 has been a lifeline for our family. From Rufus the Bear, who brought comfort to Beau in those early days, to connections with clinical trials and online support groups — we’ve leaned on every resource they offer.

 Beau is an active, determined kid who enjoys Scouting and XC running, placing in the top 10 in the state for his conference last year. He has attended diabetes camp and even mastered how to manage his insulin and supplies during a week of rustic camping with his troop. He’s currently participating in a clinical trial at UMass Gen/Harvard, which we found through Breakthrough Type 1, and travels there several times a year to help advance research for a cure.

 Our oldest son, John Jr., was inspired to start the Run for Type 1 5K, which has raised over $10,000 for Breakthrough Type 1 over the past four years. Finn, our youngest, plays an important role in the day-to-day,  always ready to help Beau find a misplaced device or deliver a juice box when his blood sugar runs low. His care and teamwork show that managing diabetes truly takes a family effort.

 As parents working in education reform, John and Rebecca have seen firsthand the importance of strong school supports to help Beau manage his diabetes independently — while also ensuring that staff and teachers have the tools to understand and assist him.

 We’re proud of how our family has grown through this experience — stronger, more connected, and deeply grateful for the community that continues to support Beau and families like ours.