Diane Bolton
For years Diane Bolton has pursued a goal she, and many others, are passionate about: to change the reality of type 1 diabetes (T1D) for millions of people—and to prevent anyone else from ever knowing it. Her connection to T1D started in 1949 when her mother, Irene Chamski-Salzman, was diagnosed at age 33. At the time, Irene was raising two active boys, Stanley and Stephen while also pregnant with Diane.
“My mother was a very fine person and never complained about her situation,” says Diane. And while Irene faced many challenges with hypoglycemic events and living with T1D, she checked her blood sugar frequently and dreamed of better days ahead.
Irene quickly became part of the movement started by grassroots volunteers that is now known today as Breakthrough T1D. As a volunteer, Irene led diabetes support groups fostering a sense of community and igniting the passion of others to join in the fight to end T1D once and for all.
“My mother was a visionary and talked about how people would one day benefit from continuous glucose monitors, years before they were on the market,” says Diane.
Irene’s unwavering support of the research and work being powered by Breakthrough T1D continued throughout her entire lifetime—even requesting memorials be made to the organization after her passing in 1996.
Diane’s mother inspired her to include a gift to Breakthrough T1D in her will.
“I chose to name Breakthrough T1D in my will because I want to see T1D eradicated. Breakthrough T1D is the only organization I know that is this focused on eliminating the condition,” says Diane.
Diane was close with her mother, and stayed by Irene’s side as she navigated multiple health challenges at the end of her lifetime. “I have to tell you, I feel good; my mom would be proud.”
“I would encourage anyone who is passionate about this condition to support Breakthrough T1D. I’m confident that there will be cures, and Breakthrough T1D is giving people a better life,” says Diane.
