Fund A Cure with the Scharpf Family | Breakthrough T1D Wisconsin Gala 2026

About The Scharpf Family

Dear Friends & Family,

We are deeply honored to share that our family has been selected as the Fund A Cure Family at the Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) Gala on March 7, 2026.

In July 2021, our lives changed forever. Owen was just six years old when we noticed he was constantly thirsty and using the bathroom far more than usual. A call to our pediatrician quickly led to a diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). The news was a complete shock. We immediately worried about how this disease would shape Owen’s future, and the weight of it all felt overwhelming.

From that day forward, we began the never-ending journey of learning how to manage T1D—finger pokes, insulin injections, sleepless nights, and constant monitoring. Through it all, Owen has amazed us with his resilience. His endocrinologist reminded us early on that there is nothing Owen cannot do because of his T1D, and that message has guided us ever since.

Owen is determined to live fully. He loves his friends, thrives in school, and shines on the football field, basketball court, and baseball diamond. Still, giving him a “normal” childhood is anything but simple. T1D is a relentless, humbling roller coaster—even with the incredible advancements of recent years. Each day brings new challenges, and we remain vigilant around the clock. Thankfully, we are not alone. It truly takes a village, and we are endlessly grateful for the teachers, babysitters, friends, and loved ones who help carry this burden with us.

We became involved with Breakthrough T1D almost immediately after Owen’s diagnosis, seeking a community of people who truly understand the weight of this disease. That community has given us strength, encouragement, and hope. More importantly, it has helped us show Owen an essential life lesson: while we cannot choose the challenges placed in our path, we can choose how we respond. With dedication, persistence, and courage, obstacles can become opportunities for growth.

Breakthrough T1D is the leading global organization focused on type 1 diabetes research, advocacy, and support. They bring together the brightest minds to accelerate treatments, influence policy, and improve access to care. We believe their work will one day make T1D a thing of the past—for Owen and for millions of others.

Sometimes Owen asks us, “When will I be done with diabetes?” It’s a question that breaks our hearts. A cure for this disease is our greatest hope.

This is where you can make a difference. Please consider supporting our family’s efforts in any way that feels right for you: by purchasing tickets, hosting a table, donating an auction item, or making a Fund A Cure gift. Every tax-deductible contribution brings us closer to a world free from the burden of T1D.

With love and gratitude,

The Scharpf Family