Supporting a cure

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February 2020 View more

  • Joanne Hasmonek purchasing Mystery Balloons from a couple of young volunteers.
  • JDRF Illinois’s Young Leadership Committee.
  • JDRF director emeritus Glen Tullman with Cook County board president Toni Preckwinkle.
  • Aurora residents Mike and Linda Roche.
  • Megan and (incoming board president) Stephen Dragich of Western Springs.
  • NBC-5’s Allison Rosati and Rob Stafford

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Illinois hosted its 40th annual One Dream Gala on Saturday, December 14, at the Arie Crown Theater in Chicago. Among the largest galas in the city, the 2019 One Dream Gala raised a record-breaking $7 million to help fund groundbreaking diabetes research.

Over 2,000 guests—including Aurora resident and board president Mike Roache—enjoyed dinner and drinks and bid on fabulous silent and live auction items. Event speakers included the Lacher family, who shared
their uplifting story of living with type 1 diabetes. The evening culminated with a live concert by rock band Third Eye Blind, whose hits include “Semi-Charmed Life” and “Jumper.” 

“Being involved in this gala is one of the most rewarding opportunities,” says Mimi K. Crabtree, executive director of JDRF Illinois. “Between hearing the Fund a Cure Family sharing their story and seeing the immense support for the fight to create a world without [type 1 diabetes], the entire evening is awe inspiring.”

Photos by Mila Samokhina and Lynn Persin