Breakthrough T1D Gala Program Book 2025

an evening at the

PALM ROYALE

January 31, 2025 Elite Jets Hangar

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

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YOUTH AMBASSADORS Emily Bussman Aiden Karapici Iona Karapici JD Scoular Campbell Scoular Leah Shwedel Isabella Stevens Hannah Stella Zynda

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COMMITTEE 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

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TO OUR SPONSORS The Heasley Family The Shotwell Family

Kathie & Mike Williams Teresa Radazki

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 Rosmonowski Ryan was diagnosed at age 11. In those days, he had to check his blood (finger prick) 6-10 times and administer 4 shots to himself daily. Staying in control was difficult at best due to the sporadic highs and lows.

Today he is 35, a husband and father, living a full and rich life with his family. Through the advances sponsored by Breakthrough T1D over the last 24 years, he now wears a Continuous Glucose Monitor by Dexcom and a Tandem pump that administers his insulin.

These advances would not have been possible without all the hard work of those who support Breakthrough T1D and help fund the research for those who suffer from this disease. With continued support, we look forward to finding 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." In 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-do attitude, saying, "Let's do this!"

We are honored to be part of the Breakthrough T1D community and deeply appreciate the love and support we've received over the years. Emily, we are so proud of the warrior you’ve become. Keep 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 Nuzzo

I have been living with Type 1 Diabetes for 53 years…a lifetime!

It isn’t always easy but the "Finish Line" is within reach! So my message is Hope for a brighter future for all T1D’s young and old.

Breakthrough T1D has been my “lifeline” and be assured your donations both big and small will get us to that finish line, a world without 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

Richard Lee Board Member

Zach Rudich

Zach, You demonstrate true strength and resilience every day living with Type 1 Diabetes. Your courage, determination, and unstoppable spirit inspire us beyond words and we are so proud of how you refuse to let diabetes define or limit you. Together, we stand by your side in the fight for a cure, hopeful for the day when Type 1 becomes Type None. We love you more than you’ll ever know!

Love, Mom, Dad, Ryan, Carly, Ian, Amanda and Miles

Ted Rudich Board President

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!

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.

Brittney Wichard Gala Committee

Justin Singer

Dear Justin,

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

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.

Come see where students thrive!

ROYAL PALM

ACADEMY

RoyalPalmAcademy.org Committed to a T1D-Friendly Environment

Summerfields HOME · GARDEN · GIFTS

953 Central Avenue, Naples, Florida 34102 239.430.2505 SummerfieldsNaples.com

Airport Kia is happy to support Breakthrough T1D Southern Florida.

The Shotwell Family is proud to support the 2025 Breakthrough T1D Gala.

A Huge Thank You to

Jennifer Bussman For all your hard work on this Program Book

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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.

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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

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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.

did you know...

PLEDGING PROCESS 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!

other

INFORMATION Thank you for buying an auction package and helping us get one step closer to a cure. There is no auction item “Pick Up” night of event. Auction pick up will take place at the Southern Florida Breakthrough T1D office located at 3369 Pine Ridge Rd #202, Naples, FL 34109 starting Tuesday, February 4th until Friday, February 7th from 9am to 5pm. If you wish to have your items mailed (shipping costs are the responsibility of the winning bidder) or dropped off to you, please contact Dulce Laureano at dlaureano@BreakthroughT1D.org or (239) 944-6554.”

Thank you!