By Alyssa Hillman

ONE NIGHT – License To Cure was an unforgettable and rewarding evening at Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia and more than $700,000 was raised for type 1 diabetes research. On Saturday, November 8, 2014, JDRF’s 450 guests filed in to the James Bond themed event and were welcomed by a 10 foot tall model in a long red dress, which flowed out into the street and created the effect of a “live red carpet”. Our Secret Agents came together generously to turn Type One into Type None.

While registering for our convenient app, BidPal, that allowed guests to bid for Silent Auction items from their smartphone, James Bond took photographs with each of the guests. The reception was filled with great entertainment: Scott Keo, a Michael Buble tribute act, casino gaming, and a one-of-a-kind 007 ice sculpture and martini bar.

After guests enjoyed mingling, the ballroom opened. Skyfall was playing as aerialists twirled from silks and captivated the attention as everyone flowed into the room. As entrées were being served, Honoree Craig H. Jackson, Chairman & CEO, Barrett-Jackson Auction Company and the Men on a Mission took the stage. These individuals were recognized for their philanthropy within the community.

Next, the Live Auction began and the energetic crowd began to raise an astonishing amount of money. Some of the most popular items were a mini vacation to the Primetime Emmys which included private plane transportation to Los Angeles, nine days of VIP admission to the Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction, and dinner with JDRF’s CEO, Derek Rapp.

The room became silent as Fund A Cure Speaker, Haley Maurice, age 16, described her 221 mile hike up Mt. Whitney this summer to raise funds for JDRF, while managing type 1 diabetes. She explained in great detail how challenging her journey was with freezing cold temperatures, bear encounters, and high and low blood glucose levels. Guests generously gave to Fund A Cure, an opportunity for 100% of donations to be directly applied to diabetes research. All Fund A Cure donations are being given to Encapsulation – a way to restore insulin independence for up to 24 month by implanting newly created beta cells into a protective capsule, which eliminates the need for toxic immune suppression therapies.

Following Fund A Cure, comedian Frank Caliendo closed the evening with his trademark impressions. He left our generous audience roaring in laughter as they headed to the 007 Lounge after party.

JDRF thanks everyone for their support to turn Type One into Type None.