10/18/2026
For our family, this work is personal. I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 18. My dad and my younger sister live with it, too, and then Tina and I became parents of two boys with T1D—Wesley and Cooper. Knowing how to manage it didn’t make hearing those diagnoses any easier.
Breakthrough T1D has given us a community that understands and hope for our boys’ future. We want them to do everything they dream of, with less of the daily burden of diabetes—and, someday, without it. That’s why being part of this gala and helping these kids tell their stories means so much to us.
Last night, the Des Moines Hope Gala raised $1,036,883. What a night to be part of. đź’™
We had the privilege of creating these films with the Youth Ambassadors: a look behind the scenes at their calendar shoot, their thank-you to the gala sponsors, and their interviews with guests arriving last night. The kids brought the laughs, asked the big questions, and reminded us why this work matters.
We’ve included the total reveal, too—the moment the generosity of this community filled the screen.
Thank you to the kids and families who shared their stories, the guests who gave, and every sponsor, volunteer, and gala team member who made the evening possible.
Proud to support Breakthrough T1D and BT1D Iowa.
A special thank-you to presenting partner Farmers Mutual Hail Insurance, regional partner Hy-Vee, promise partners Beisser Lumber Company and Homesteaders Life Company, and WHO 13 News.
A few favorite photos from the evening are here, too. Thank you for being part of it.
