Breakthrough T1D 34th Annual Promise Gala to Raise $1.8 Million in Pittsburgh for T1D Research

PITTSBURGH - EntSun -- Pittsburgh, PA — Breakthrough T1D Western Pennsylvania & West Virginia Chapter (formerly JDRF) hosted its annual 34th Annual Pittsburgh Promise Gala, brought together approximately 500 guests for an unforgettable evening dedicated to advancing research and improving lives for those affected by type 1 diabetes (T1D). This year's theme, Bridges to a Breakthrough, reflects the strength of the Pittsburgh community, bringing together families, corporate leaders, and supporters to drive progress toward life-changing treatments and, ultimately, cures. The event is expected to raise $1.8 million through sponsorships, auction contributions, and the impactful Fund A Cure program.

One of the longest-running and most successful fundraising events in Pittsburgh, the Promise Gala attracts top corporate leaders and community members for a powerful night of connection, philanthropy, and purpose.

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The 2026 Gala will honor Dusty Elias Kirk for her more than 25 years of unwavering dedication to improving lives and making progress to cure T1D. Dan Onorato (Highmark Health), David J. Malone (Gateway Financial), and Greg Jordan (PNC Financial Services Group) serve as cochairs of the Gala's Executive Leadership Team. KDKA's Larry Richert will emcee the evening.

A highlight of the night is Fund-A-Cure, a powerful giving opportunity that allows guests to directly support life-changing research. Contributions help accelerate therapies that improve lives today and move us closer to a world without T1D. This year', the Golembiewski Family—parents Art and Nancy, and their children Addison, who lives with T1D, and Maggie—will share their deeply personal connection to this mission which began with Addison's diagnosis at age 3.

"Tonight isn't just about honoring the past," said honoree Dusty Elias Kirk. "It's about believing in what comes next—a future where children with T1D don't have to choose between being safe and being kids, and where this disease no longer dictates every moment of a family's life."

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T1D is an autoimmune condition in which the pancreas produces little to no insulin, leading to lifelong insulin dependence and risk of serious complications. It affects nearly 9 million people globally, with nearly half of diagnoses occurring in adulthood. There is currently no cure.

The Breakthrough T1D Promise Gala supports the organization's mission to accelerate life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent, and treat type 1 diabetes and its complications.

As the leading global type 1 diabetes research and advocacy organization, Breakthrough T1D works to improve lives today while driving toward cures through research, advocacy, and community support.

For more information, visit BreakthroughT1D.org/westernpawestva