January 31, 2025
a message FROM OUR HOSTS
We met as first-time moms almost a dozen years ago. Our daughters, born only two weeks apart, brought us together. Until Leah’s diagnosis, we were living very similiar lives raising young children, navigating the joys and challenges of early motherhood, and bonding over shared experiences. But when the girls were in Pre-K, everything changed. Leah was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, and suddenly the Shwedel's world was forever altered.
Leah was only 5 years old, and the reality of Type 1 Diabetes became an unrelenting part of their lives The daily demands of this disease are exhausting, and the burden is not just physical but emotional, mental, and financial. The constant challenge of monitoring Leah’s blood sugar, the vigilance it requires, and the emotional toll it takes it affects every part of their day, every moment of their lives. And yet, despite all of this, Leah continues to shine as a bright light in their lives. Leah is the reason we are both here tonight.
We’ve come to realize that while the diagnosis was a shock, it also awakened something in us: a deep commitment to raising awareness and partnering with Breakthrough T1D to fund the research that will lead to a cure. We want more people to understand Type 1 Diabetes, and we want to see this disease eradicated. Type 1 Diabetes is a life-threatening autoimmune disease that causes serious complications, but with your help, we are working to change the future for Leah and so many others.
Tonight, we are united in the fight against Type 1 Diabetes. The strength and support of this community are incredible. As we look around this room, we see the dedication and passion that each of you brings to this cause, and we feel energized by the collective commitment to making a difference You are part of our team now, and together, we can raise the awareness and funds needed to continue funding Breakthrough T1D's groundbreaking research that will one day lead to a cure.
Every conversation, every donation, and every shared moment tonight is bringing us closer to a future free of T1D. Thank you once again for being here, for supporting us, and for standing with us in this fight.
Gwendolyn Heasley & Jessica Shwedel
Today, people with T1D are living healthier lives because of the breakthroughs we have championed.
Aaron J. Kowalski, Ph.D.
Breakthrough T1D CEO
south florida BOARD MEMBERS
Ted Rudich – President
Charles Weinrich – Vice President
Debbie Nuzzo - Global Mission Chair
Jeane Rosmonowski - Nominating Chair
Kay Thorp - Advocacy Chair
Donald Montroy
Mary Ellen Kaplan
Miles Griffin
Richard Lee
Robin Marcus
Wendy Flaherty thank you
YOUTH AMBASSADORS
Emily Bussman
Aiden Karapici
Iona Karapici
JD Scoular
Campbell Scoular
Leah Shwedel
Isabella Stevens
Hannah Stella Zynda
thank youCOMMITTEE MEMBERS
Gwendolyn Heasley – Gala Chair
Jessica Shwedel – Gala Chair Emeritus
Jennifer Bussman
Ryann Cindrich
Melissa Corliss
Kelli Corwin
Wendy Flaherty
Rachel Galante
Elena Griffin
Natalie Harley
Mary Ellen Kaplan
Robin Marcus
Kelly McWilliams
Michele Monteleone
Debbie Nuzzo
Stephanie Prebish
Julia Reisman
Eva Rinderer
Jeane Rosmonowski
Nicholas Royka
Mari Rubenstein
Arnie Rubin
Lynn Rubin
Katie Russo
Dyam Sanchez
Meri Setyan
Nelly Shotwell
Kay Thorp
Brittney Wichard
Chris Zazo
Jessica Zazo
Emily Beard
Wow Em – 17 years with Type 1 diabetes! When you were diagnosed, we promised you we would work hard along with Breakthrough T1D to find a cure for this terrible disease. We’re proud to say that we have come a long way. We are so happy that new products are constantly coming to the market to make everyone ’ s lives with type 1 easier. We understand that everyone with type 1 has their daily challenges, and no one day is ever the same. We love, care and respect you for this difficult undertaking at such a young age and you continue to manage it with grace and discipline!! We are so proud you work for Breakthrough T1D, helping newly diagnosed families understand the disease, be able to ask questions, and get involved. One day soon, we hope we can say to you that its finally “ over ” and that your wish and our wish has come true. We love you Em!!
Mom & Dad
Ryan Rosmonows
Ryan was diagnosed at age 11 In those da had to check his blood (finger prick) 6-10 and administer 4 shots to himself daily. S in control was difficult at best due to the sporadic highs and lows.
Today he is 35, a husband and father, livi full and rich life with his family. Through advances sponsored by Breakthrough T1D the last 24 years, he now wears a Continu Glucose Monitor by Dexcom and a Tande pump that administers his insulin.
These advances would not have been pos without all the hard work of those who su Breakthrough T1D and help fund the rese for those who suffer from this disease W continued support, we look forward to fin the cure!
Jeane Rosmonowski Gala Committee Member & Board Member
Emily Bussman
From the day our daughter Emily was born, we knew she was destined to be a warrior her name even means "rival." 2021, our little warrior faced a new challenge when she was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. She has embraced this diagnosis with incredible strength and courage, always smiling and with a can-d attitude, saying, "Let's do this!"
We are honored to be part of the Breakthrough T1D community and deepl appreciate the love and support we ' ve received over the years. Emily, we are so proud of the warrior you ’ ve become. Kee fighting and keep shining!
Love, Mommy & Daddy
Jennifer Bussman
Gala Committee Member
Emily Flaherty
My daughter was diagnosed at age 19. Today she is a 35 and has a beautiful little boy. To watch her struggle daily just breaks my heart. But she is tough and motors through. I cannot wait for the day when we have a cure, and she is T1D free!
Wendy Flaherty Gala Committee Member & Board Member
Beth Small
Dear Beth,
We have been together with you for almost 24 years on your journey with T1D. In that time, our family has expanded from 6 to 14, all loving and supporting you! We are so proud of you: Eve’s mom, wife and attorney! We look forward to the day when there is no T1D!
Love, Mum & Dad
Mary Ellen Kaplan Gala Committee Member & Board Member
Debbie Nuzz
I have been living with Type 1 Diabetes for 53 years…a lifetim It isn’t always easy but the "F Line" is within reach! So my m is Hope for a brighter future f T1D’s young and old.
Breakthrough T1D has been m “lifeline” and be assured your donations both big and small us to that finish line, a world T1D. “You give us Hope.”
My best,
Debbie
Debbie Nuzzo Board Member
David Collar
David Collar is made of iron At least, that’s what my husband says. Diagnosed at 14 in 1964, he’s been T1D for 60 years. In the 60s, he could only test his blood sugar at the doctor’s office every 3 months and he had to quit sports. He was flying blind, but that didn’t stop him from trying everything he could, from traveling the world to lighting up the sky with his fireworks business.
In the past few decades, he’s battled neuropathy, cancer, and a heart attack, but he bounces back every time to find what’s next. Every prognosis is like a dare - another chance to beat the odds and seize every precious moment. I have to hold my breath a lot around my dad. He’s always hopping on a plane, barreling down the ski slope backward, and running off on the next adventure
I’ve also been T1D for 40 years, and watching my dad live big reminds me to make every moment count. I might not have the broken bones and scars to show for my adventures, but as long as my dad is around, I can be sure I’m having fun.
My dad is the Black Cat Guy My dad lives and loves with breathtaking ferocity My dad's life stories sound like myths or legends because he lives without fear. He isn't just a T1D success story, he is a T1D superhero. He is my inspiration T1D didn't stop my dad, so it won't stop me
Megan Throckmorton
Zach R
Zach, You demonstrate t resilience every da Diabetes. Your cou and unstoppable sp beyond words and how you refuse to limit you. Together side in the fight for the day when Type None. We love you ever know!
Love, Mom, Dad, R Amanda and Miles Ted Rudich Board Presiden
Jessica, thank you for being such a great friend for the past 12 years. I have enjoyed co-chairing this beautiful gala with you and helping to support Breakthrough T1D.
Over the past six years, I have learned so much from Leah’s unbreakable spirit and your entire family’s battle against T1D
You never cease to amaze me. Your dedication and focus has no end. You have redefined to me what mothering actually means, and I will carry that lesson with me always.
The Thorp Family is proud to support Breakthrough T1D.
We look forward to the day when type one is type none!
Dear Justin,
Justin Singer
We will end Type 1 to Type None!!! I will never stop working for this cause! 36 years too long! Love you to the moon!
Mom Robin Marcus Board Member
Gary Wichard
In memory of Gary Wichard, longtime sports agent, beloved father, uncle and son. Gary was diagnosed with T1D as a child, but lived life to the fullest May his legacy be a reminder to all of those affected by T1D that with hope and determination, anything is possible.
BrittneyWichard GalaCommittee
Leah Shwedel
To Leah,
Our brave, courageous, and talented granddaughter! You are going to make a difference in this world! Love you to the moon and back!
Love, Yaya and Arnie
Lynn Rubin Gala Committee Member
myths & FACTS
Myth: You can only be diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a child.
Fact: Adults account for approximately half of all new T1D diagnoses. Anyone can develop T1D at any age. The average age currently of diagnosis is 26. That is why it is so important to find a cure!
Myth: You are diagnosed as a child with type 1 and as you age you become a type 2.
Fact: Type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes are two SEPARATE diseases. Type 1 is a chronic autoimmune disease where your pancreas no longer produces insulin. Insulin is needed to live.
Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disease in which the body makes insulin, but not enough to control glucose numbers. Type 2 is the most common form of diabetes and is sometimes a result of poor health/lifestyle.
Myth: The Naples Breakthrough T1D Gala only supports the Naples Chapter.
Fact: 100% of Fund A Cure donations go directly to research projects (worldwide) for curing type 1 diabetes. In addition, the research is helping with other autoimmune diseases.
Myth: T1D’s only need insulin when they eat.
Fact: T1D’s need insulin 24/7 to live and they need additional insulin based on the foods they eat. Insulin dosage fluctuates on a daily basis.
myths & FACTS
Myth: People with T1D only need to worry if their blood sugar levels are high.
Fact: Anyone who has been diagnosed with T1D needs to keep blood sugar levels in a healthy range. Both high and low blood sugars need to be monitored and treated accordingly. Keeping tight control will help avoid the many complications such as kidney disease, heart disease and more.
Myth: T1D only affects the person with the disease.
Fact: T1D is a whole family disease. When a child is diagnosed, the parents need to monitor the child 24/7, even in their sleep so their blood sugars don’t go too low or too high. Adults with T1D experience the same problems, and need a strong support system.
Myth: Children get T1D because their parents give them too much sugar.
Fact: Type 1 diabetes is a chronic autoimmune disease that is triggered in various ways. It is not something that is a result of too much sugar or something that someone did wrong.
Myth: Breakthrough T1D is only based in the United States.
Fact: Breakthrough T1D is a global organization. It supports and funds research in 25+ countries around the world.
Myth: Pumps, glucose monitors, and insulin are always available and free for diabetics.
Fact: Diabetic supplies can be very costly. Depending on insurance, access to the best technology is not always covered and can be very expensive.
A Huge Thank You to Jennifer Bussman
For all your hard work on this Program Book
thank you
IN-KIND & AUCTION DONORS
In-Kind Donors
Coastal Event Décor
Duality Artistry
Isn’t She Lovely
Jordan Kahn Orchestra
Lakshmi Sarkar Creations
Mare Terra Ristorante
Off the Hook Comedy Club
Plithos Event Rentals
Shauna & Jordan Photography
Shauna & Jordon Portrait Experience
Sweetified
Trinity Event Rentals
Velzy Co
Live Auction Donors
A. Putnam
Bee Apothecary
Ben & Orly Lawler
Black Salt Culinary
BU Club
Buccan Restaurant
Cory & Gwendolyn Carter
Crave Culinaire, LLC
Curate Entertainment
David Collar
Design by Kelly McWilliams
élevée by Rickey
Felton Hat Co.
FLY Charters
Fury Water Adventures
Gulfstream Fishing Key West
Hailstone Winery
Jennifer Tattanelli
John Comet
Kaufman Astoria Studios
Lilly Pulitzer
Lola's Bistro Key West
Marissa Collections
Naples Park Music
Noah Grey Music
Philip & Maureen Heasley
Roy & Gail Geonemus
The Colony Hotel
The Jack Parker Corporation
Tom Trovato Event Floral & Design
White Elephant Palm Beach
You may have noticed a chair you like, food you love, or music you must have at your next event. Please consider using one of our amazing vendors who have graciously donated services to this Naples Breakthrough T1D Gala. Donations were made as follows: Platinum 100% donation/Gold 50-90% donation/Silver 50% donation
The program book was printed on January 21, 2025. If items were donated after this date, they were acknowledged in the digital program
thank you
IN-KIND & AUCTION DONORS
Silent Auction Donors
810 Billiards and Bowling
Absent Minded KW, LLC
Alexander's Garden Restaurant
Ally Buckley
Angelic Desserts Bakery & Cafe
Angelina's Ristorante
Bellini Italian Restaurant and Bar
Beyond Juicery + Eatery
Bleu Provence
BU Club
Capital Grille
Captiva Cruises Inc.
Club Pelican Bay
CMX Cinemas
Colleen Sheea Provost
Cypress Woods Country Club
Dee Dee Artistry
Elite Jets
Estero Country Club
Florida Everblades Hockey Club
Fort Myers Mighty Mussels
Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Naples
Fuse
Golisano Children's Museum of Naples
Great Wolf Lodge
Hayes Haberdashery
Hailstone Winery
Joe & Debbie Wheeler
John & Debbie Nuzzo
JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort
Katie Russo
KC American Bistro
KidsDreamFactory
Light Up Naples Holiday & Outdoor
Lighting
LoveJoy Antiques
Luxure Lifestyle
LVD Spaces LLC
Mare Terra Ristorante
Marimack Productions
Mary Ellen & Leon Kaplan
Mattis Inc.
Michele Monteleone
Mitch & Sharon Rosen
Moorings Golf & Country Club
Nosh on Naples Bay
Old Vines Naples at Mercato
Paul Fleming Restaurants
Phelan Brands
Pierre & Harry
Porsche Naples
Prestige Catering LLC
Prestige Matchmaking Pro's
Robin Stranahan
Ridgway Bar & Grill
Roy & Gail Geronemus
Sale E Pepe
Sally Foreman
Shadow Wood Country Club
Smile Surf & Sail
Steven Fox Jewelry
Sunglass Hut
Sweetified
The Local Naples
The Perry Hotel Naples
Tiburon Golf Club
Tiger Rock Martial Arts
TPC Treviso Bay
Tween Waters Island Resort
Veronica Beard
Vineyards Country Club
Yamron Jewelers
thank you TO OUR VENDORS
Platinum Level
Dinner & Party Music- Jordan Kahn Orchestra
Gala Photography – Shauna & Jordon Photo
Photo Booth – S&J Portrait
Hair & Makeup – Duality Artistry
Theme Cake – Sweetified Cakes
Save The Date Artwork – Lakshmi Sarkar Artistry
Live Artist – Leigh Brown Illustration
Tarot Reader – Alexander Nemo
Vintage Cars – Cool Cruisers Club
Vintage Plane – Elite Jets
Ballroom Dancers - Boris Medved and Amelia de-La-Haye
Gold Level
Event Production – Kelly McWilliams
Draping & Rentals – Trinity Event Rentals
Gala Rentals – Vivant
Vinyl Floor Wraps & Signage – Coastal Event Décor
Silver Level
Décor Rentals & Build - Plithos Rentals
Florals - Isn’t She Lovely Florals
Special Thanks To
Valet – 5Star Valet
Security – Elite Shield
Restrooms – Prestigious Restrooms
Cocktail Hour Entertainment – Carolyn Schultz
Cocktail Hour Music – Legacy Music Tributes
Videography – Business Attraction Media
Food & Beverage – Crave Culinaire
A/V – SW Florida Entertainment
You may have noticed a chair you like, food you love or music that you must have at your next event. Please consider using one of our amazing vendors when you book your next party, event, or fundraiser.
What greater gift can we give than the “Gift of Progress to a Cure”?
At Breakthrough T1D, there are many meaningful ways to contribute. Here are just a few:
One-Time Fund A Cure Donation
Pledge Guarantee: You can make a pledge to be paid over a 2 to 5-year period, enabling Breakthrough T1D to allocate those funds toward future research today.
For example: Pledge $100,000 over 5 years, contributing $20,000 per year.
Leave a Legacy: Include Breakthrough T1D in your will as a donation.
For more ways to give go to:
www.breakthrought1d.org/ways-to-give Every dollar makes a difference!
