Sapna Bhambhani

Field Medical Scientist, Provention Bio

Sapna Bhambhani is a familiar face to our chapter members. Perhaps Sapna welcomed you to the community as an Outreach Volunteer, or you heard her welcome our chapter at this year’s TypeOneNation Summit event. This past July, Sapna was nominated to our Chapter Board of Directors. Learn more about Sapna’s passion for community engagement and why she was inspired to lean in even more. 

Take a moment to introduce yourself and tell us a little about you!
Hello, my name is Sapna Bhambhani. I live in Westfield, NJ, with my husband Tom and my 12-year-old daughter Sarina, who was diagnosed with T1D four years ago. I am a board-certified pediatric clinical pharmacist and adjunct faculty at the Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy at Rutgers University. My current practice site is Saint Peter’s University Hospital where I have been working for the past eight years. In my spare time, I love going to the beach (every chance I get), reading, listening to music and podcasts, and spending time with my family.

How did you get connected to JDRF?

When my daughter was diagnosed, I received a handout from the hospital about ordering a Bag of Hope from the JDRF website. Along with the Bag of Hope, I received other helpful booklets (Back to school, carb counting, etc). The following year we created our first Walk team. It was there that I met some of our chapter staff and felt an instant connection.

Tell us more about your work at Saint Peter’s University Hospital.

I earned my Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Rutgers University in 1999 and Board Certification in Pediatric Pharmacotherapy in 2016. I have taught and mentored many pharmacy students and residents. On a personal note, I started a support group for children with type 1 diabetes and their families at Saint Peter’s University Hospital in 2017, which has grown to include over 30 families who regularly participate in online and in-person events. Many of these families are now my closest friends and are always there to support one another.

Why did you join the chapter Board of Directors?

I am excited for the opportunity to work with other board members to help guide our chapter’s mission.

What inspires you? 

People living with T1D inspire me. Those who wake up every day and must be conscious of how they feel, what their blood sugar is, what they are going to eat, how much activity they plan to have. It is overwhelming and all consuming and yet invisible to most people.

I am inspired by the children who wear their pumps and CGMs proudly, poke their fingers and deal with the highs and lows. Those who live out their dreams in spite of T1D. Those who play sports with the added burden of checking their blood sugar, making sure they don’t go low or dealing with adrenaline spikes.

I’m inspired by people with type 1 diabetes who don’t give up even when they don’t think they can do it another day.

What do you wish to accomplish as a JDRF board member?

I would like to make a broader impact on the fight against T1D. I have educated and supported newly-diagnosed patients and families in the hospital, volunteered on my chapter’s Outreach Committee [Outreach Volunteer, TypeOneNation Summit, Parents Supporting Parents group], and lecture to medical residents, nurses and pharmacy students on type 1 diabetes. My family has raised thousands of dollars walking, running and riding for the cure. However, I feel that there is more that I can do. Serving on the board, as well as assuming the Advocacy Team Chair role, will allow me to achieve a different level of influence on the fight against T1D.

What JDRF moment stands out to you the most?

There are many, but one of my most memorable was at our first One Walk at Rutgers. While taking a group picture with all of our family and friends who came out to support us, I was all of a sudden overwhelmed with gratitude not only for them, but for JDRF, the organization that was working tirelessly to fundraise, support research, advocate for and support people with diabetes, and ultimately find a cure. I knew I had found my organization.

Cathleen Callinan

Advocacy Team Chair

Take a moment to introduce yourself and tell us a little about you!
I live in Monmouth County with my husband, and our 3 kids, Jack (18), Catherine(16), and Maeve(15). Our son, Jack, was diagnosed with type-one diabetes at the age of 7. We like to travel, especially to places with historic significance. I love maps and F1 Racing. I currently work in IT for a government contractor. My husband is an elder care attorney (we like to call it elder love), my son Jack is a freshman at Stevens Institute of Technology, and my daughters, Maeve and Catherine, are sophomore and junior respectively at Biotechnology High School.

How did you get connected to JDRF?
Jack and I first started volunteering at JDRF walks. I enjoyed it so much, Avon-by-the-sea, Liberty State Park, the Rutgers Walk, I soon became a family team coach working with Stacy Di Archangel. One thing led to another and I now I have this extended family that I affectionately like to call my peeps.

Why did you join the chapter Board of Directors?
I joined the chapter Board of Directors because I can be a small part of getting the word out, to advocate, to raise funds, to engage others to join our fight. I cannot take the disease away from my son, but I can use my voice.

What inspires you?
My son inspires me. My son inspires me when he powers through a day after no sleep due to blood sugar highs and lows. My son inspires me when he endures the horrible feeling of a low blood sugar. My son inspires me when he passes on an ice cream cone when everyone else is eating one. My son inspires me when he waits patiently for his insulin to start working before eating dinner. My son inspires me every day.

What do you wish to accomplish as a JDRF board member?
While a JDRF board member and part of the advocacy team, I would like to see one goal accomplished. Together with JDRF staff, volunteers like me, those affected by type-one diabetes and their loved ones, i would like us all to see a cure.

What JDRF moment stands out to you the most?
My most memorable JDRF moment is attending the New Jersey state legislator with my son, Jack, when the vote passed for “A Day in the Life – Type 1 Diabetes Day.”

What accomplishments are you most proud of?
I am most proud of being present.

Andy Drechsler

CFO, Provention Bio

For Andy Drechsler, type 1 diabetes is a huge part of his home and work life. This past July, Andy was nominated to our Chapter Board of Directors. Learn more about Andy, his connections to T1D, and his goals. 

Take a moment to introduce yourself and tell us a little about you!
My name is Andy Drechsler. I am married to Moira, a nurse, and mother to our four children: Avery (18), Tommy (16), Amelia (15) and Will (12). Avery, Tommy and Will are T1Ds. I work in the biotech industry and I am the CFO of Provention Bio.

How did you get connected to JDRF?

We were originally introduced to the JDRF in 2005 when Tommy (22 months) was diagnosed with T1D. Over the years we have participated in walks and other JDRF sponsored events. In addition, Avery and Tommy have participated in the youth ambassador program.

Why did you join the chapter Board of Directors?

I am looking to contribute to the local T1D community. T1D is a huge part of my life (home and work) so I think I can add value on a local level by sharing our personal story, helping others with similar challenges, and thinking strategically about this disease in the future.

What inspires you? 

My kids and all kids that live T1D are a great inspiration. I often think of those families that are receiving the T1D diagnosis for the first time. The child, their siblings, and the parents are overwhelmed and are starting a lifelong journey. Anything we can do to make that easier is well worth the time/effort. My kids and all kids that live T1D are a great inspiration. I often think of those families that are receiving the T1D diagnosis for the first time. The child, their siblings, and the parents are overwhelmed and are starting a lifelong journey. Anything we can do to make that easier is well worth the time/effort.

What do you wish to accomplish as a JDRF board member?

My goal would be to increase the awareness of screening for T1D. A simple blood test of a relative with T1D could identify the disease while still in Stage 2 (prior to a clinical diagnosis). Soon (next year hopefully) there will be an approved therapy that can intervene and preserve remaining beta cell function (insulin production) and potentially eliminate the need for exogenous insulin.

What JDRF moment stands out to you the most?

When I think about JDRF I think about the annual Walk in Avon. So many families, so many people supporting the T1D community. It is refreshing and spirit-lifting.

Audrey Geiger

Audrey Geiger is a force of nature for our T1D community. Her passion for the community and determination to broaden our chapter’s Community Engagement priorities, has contributed to a thriving Outreach Committee, community network and increased support and resources for adults living with T1D. Audrey leads our Adult Networking Group; feel free to join her at the next meeting!

Take a moment to introduce yourself and tell us a little about you!
My name is Audrey Geiger. I am Senior Vice President and Head of Underwriting Management for the Americas at AXA XL. I have been married to my husband Kevin for 27 years, who is an optometrist, and we have a daughter Hayley, who is 23 and is going to Columbia for graduate school. Hayley is studying to be a Behavioral Therapist and lives in New York City. We recently moved from Marlboro to Jersey City for me to be closer to the office in New York City.

I have had Type 1 Diabetes for almost 25 years and was diagnosed when I was pregnant. I have been actively engaged with JDRF for several years as a Board Member, Chair of Outreach, Outreach Committee Member, Lead of the Adult Network, which has now become Virtual, and have had a family walk team for many years. At work, I’m also the Executive Co-Sponsor of LEAD (Leading, Empowering and Advancing Diversity) for our NY Chapter.

How did you get connected to JDRF?

I initially became involved when we started a Walk team. A couple of years later, a former President of the Central Jersey Chapter reached out to me at the gym to see if I would be interested in being a Board Member. He knew I had Type 1, a walk team and had corporate experience. He thought I would be a great fit, and here I am several years later—through chapter changes and reorganizations—still committed to JDRF.

Why did you join the chapter Board of Directors?

I have been living with Type 1 for several years balancing, family, work, friends and Type 1. I often thought over the years I may have gotten this for a reason and always wanted to give back. Although Type 1 has challenged me and is always on my mind, it hasn’t stopped me from having a career, family, friends, etc. When I was asked to be on the Board, I thought this may be the reason. It gave me the opportunity to give back and help others who are dealing with the same challenges as I do.

What inspires you? 

I am inspired by making a difference and helping others to overcome challenges. This is why I am so passionate about Outreach.

What do you wish to accomplish as a JDRF board member?

I want to partner with the Board Members to ensure we have the right balance on funding the cure and supporting our community as we work together to go from Type 1 to Type None.

What JDRF moment stands out to you the most?

So many moments stand out to me, it is hard to pick just one. But, the most emotional moment is always the day of the Walk. It is on that day that Type 1 is very real to me. I am walking with family and friends that are walking for me—to help fund a cure so I don’t have to live with this anymore. I look around and see so many people walking and supporting each other to fund the cure.

Dave Goodes

Board President

Dave Goodes joined our chapter Board of Directors to lend his skills, strength and expertise to advance our mission. He steps into the role of Board President, excited to maximize his impact over the next two years. 

Take a moment to introduce yourself and tell us a little about you!
Hi. I am a devoted father to 3 amazing children: John (16), Andrew (14) and Rebecca (12). I cherish every moment I can spend with them. I spend most of my time these days carpooling or watching their activities (baseball, basketball, dance, etc.), I am a retired corporate executive.

After 25 years in the corporate world, I achieved my business goal of becoming a successful Fortune 500 CHRO. I retired in 2018 and have found my post-corporate life so fulfilling. I enjoy playing golf, tennis, paddle and working out.  I also enjoy quiet nights at home or great nights out with my girlfriend Bethany.

Oh, and I cant forget my two dogs! Hoosier is a 2-year-old Golden Doodle and Indy-Anna is a 6-month-old Golden Retriever. They certainly keep us busy and active as well.

How did you get connected to JDRF?

I became connected to JDRF when my daughter Rebecca was diagnosed with T1D in April 2016 at the age of 8. I joined the Board in 2018 and have found the entire organization to be perfectly aligned with the type of organization that I want to be involved.

In November 2019, my oldest son John was diagnosed with T1D at the age of 15. In July of 2020, I decided to double-down and am now proud to serve as Community Board President for NJ Metro & Rockland County JDRF.

Why did you join the chapter Board of Directors?

I joined the Board of Directors so that I could maximize my impact on JDRF’s local efforts whether it be advocacy, outreach, community involvement and, of course, fundraising. If there is anything I can do assist the mission of JDRF I am ALL IN.

What inspires you? 

I am inspired by the strength of the entire JDRF community. Whether it be my personal involvement with my 3 children, or for the broader good of all impacted by the great work of this organization. I am inspired by the commitment of the staff (both locally and nationally) to improve the lives of all T1Ds while also providing important input and research dollars towards cures of this disease.

What do you wish to accomplish as a JDRF board member?

In my current role as Community Board President, I want to maximize the engagement of all Board members. I have learned that what makes a great local chapter is amazing Board engagement. I want to provide direction, feedback and guidance to both staff and volunteers to maximize the engagement of all Board Members and ultimate success of the organization.

What JDRF moment stands out to you the most?

My very first exposure to JDRF really stands out.

My daughter had just been diagnosed and there happened to be a research update near my home. I attended the event with very low expectations. What I saw at the event was truly remarkable. I saw a community so willing to help, so honest about there feelings about the disease. Most importantly, I saw hope and optimism. Not only about the ability for my daughter to live a normal life following her diagnosis, but also the optimism that this organization is working on cures.

Aaron Kowalski (who was in the role of head of research and is now the CEO) provided a research update that made me understand the importance that every dollar means toward the race to cures.

What accomplishments are you most proud of?

While I am proud of my personal and professional accomplishments, I have not achieved my biggest goal yet. That goal is do everything I possibly can to put an end to Type 1 Diabetes. I won’t stop in this pursuit until we have all attained this goal. I am so proud to say that we are on our way, and we are one day closer to cures each and every day!

Eva Kohn

You may have met Eva Kohn at a chapter Research Update or perhaps you’ve crossed professional paths with this local leader. As a board member, Eva is determined to drive our mission forward to achieve cures. 

Take a moment to introduce yourself and tell us a little about you!
My name is Eva Kohn. I’m the mom of a 29-year-old T1 son who was diagnosed at age 7. I also have a 24-year-old daughter who was born with a cleft lip and palate. Between my two children, I spent many years at doctor’s offices and in hospitals.

I am EVP and CRO for CBA Industries, Inc. which is a print media company covering New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia. I’m also on the Executive Committee and Board of Directors for the New Jersey Food Council. And I’m active with NEW (Network of Executive Women) both nationally and in the NY Metro area where I serve on the Board.

How did you get connected to JDRF?

I originally connected with JDRF in Philadelphia when my son was diagnosed 22 years ago. At the time of his diagnosis, there were few resources for newly diagnosed T1Ds. Unfortunately, I was too busy to get involved with JDRF other than occasionally speaking with other newly diagnosed families. However, when I moved to NJ five years ago, I wanted to get involved with JDRF because I believe in the mission and was happy to see that outreach had become a key element of JDRF. I reached out to the chapter and had several conversations with Jess [Backofen, former executive director] who asked me to join the Board.

Why did you join the chapter Board of Directors?

I want to make a difference in the lives of people who live with T1D and am passionate about finding a cure. I’m so glad to see the significant progress that has taken place in terms of technology; however, we ultimately need to find a cure (or cures, as the case may be).

What inspires you? 

I’m inspired by the wonderful T1D community that exists here in New Jersey. The Board and Staff are comprised of proactive like-minded individuals who share the same vision.

What do you wish to accomplish as a JDRF board member?

My goal is to assist the Board and Staff in achieving the chapter and national objectives. Given the impact of COVID-19, we are going to need to be even more strategic and creative in our thought-processes in order to achieve the necessary funding to find a cure.

What JDRF moment stands out to you the most?

The most exciting JDRF moment that stands out is knowing that there are more than 70 clinical trials taking place as we push for a cure.

Joe McHale

Joe McHale is very familiar with the burdens that T1D brings, but he refuses to let that get in his way. He’s not looking to survive with T1D, he’s looking to thrive. This past July, Joe was nominated to our Chapter Board of Directors.

Joe was diagnosed at the age of 14 and through great guidance from his healthcare team (and family) has been able to embrace athletics and other activity as a key strategy to staying healthy throughout his life. He learned early on, that as a type 1 diabetic, you need to “aggressively manage this disease and not let it manage you.”

His son, Joseph, a former Division 1 college lacrosse player at Providence College, was diagnosed with yype 1 in the fall of 2018. He was able to leverage his diagnosis as an opportunity to create awareness by dedicating his final game in 2019 as a T1D Awareness Event and raising more than $10,000 dollars for JDRF.

It was easy for the family to help Joseph grasp all of the complexities of the disease, as mom, Lauren, also has type 1. The family understands the importance of living a healthy lifestyle and sports and exercise are just a part of it.

As a Marketing Professional, Joe has been able to leverage his insights as a diabetic to successfully market several “blockbuster” Diabetes and Cardiovascular Brands at Novo Nordisk and Novartis Pharmaceuticals. Joe is currently an Executive Vice President of Sales at POCN a Technology Organization that focuses on identifying and engaging with Advanced Clinicians throughout the US.

Joe and his family are from Bernardsville, NJ. He and his wife Lauren are the proud parents of three children, Joseph (22), Laurel (19) and Jenna (17).

Carolyn Sansevere

Carolyn Sansevere is warm leader, ready to welcome newly-diagnosed families with open arms into our Chapter. Carolyn leads by example, spending time with our community at One Walk, TypeOneNation Summit (in person or online) and intimate research updates. 

Take a moment to introduce yourself and tell us a little about you!
My name is Carolyn Sansevere, and I’m a Physical Therapist for Hunterdon Healthcare, married to Dr. Joe Sansevere, and I have three grown children: Robbie, Matthew and Megan, diagnosed with type 1 diabetes on 7/03/09.

I served on the Mid-Jersey board of directors before we becoming the New Jersey Metro & Rockland County Chapter. I also serve on the Outreach and Gala committees, and have participated in 11 JDRF walks with Megan’s Dream Team. I have attended, volunteered and supported JDRF Rides to Cure in Lake Tahoe, Vermont and Saratoga Springs while cheering my brother in law Marty Kott on, and I have attended and been involved with most of the annual galas since 2011.

How did you get connected to JDRF?

I was connected to JDRF with my daughter’s Bag of Hope when she was diagnosed at St. Peter’s Hospital in New Brunswick. I started with the Walk and then was a volunteer at the Gala, where I met Debbie Nuzzo, the president of the Mid-Jersey Chapter and she recruited me to be a board member.

Why did you join the chapter Board of Directors?

I joined because I was very involved in the chapter, and I want to do all I could to help fund research for better treatments and  a cure for type 1 diabetes and support the T1D community. It is something I can do to help my daughter and others with type 1.

I believe in JDRF and its mission. I have seen in the past 11 years huge strides in the management of my daughter’s type 1 thanks to the research JDRF funds. I truly believe in Aaron Kowalski and his efforts to find a cure.

What inspires you? 

My daughter is definitely my inspiration for all that I do involving JDRF. She is a true hero in my eyes. She is so independent; she was diagnosed at 13 years old, and has tried to be independent managing her type 1 since then.

Our most supportive and dedicated chapter staff and our CEO of JDRF inspire me to continue with my efforts.

Helping others in our local community and being there for the T1D parents inspire me. It was very important to me when Megan was diagnosed to make T1D connections and become educated so I could do all I could to help manage her disease.

What do you wish to accomplish as a JDRF board member?

Be a support in any way I can to help reach out to the T1D community when needed, help find ways to raise JDRF research dollars, support our JDRF chapter staff and educate the public on T1D and JDRF

What JDRF moment stands out to you the most?

My family and I were honored in 2016 at the Mid-Jersey Gala. It was so wonderful having many of our friends, coworkers and family with us for such an awesome cause.

What accomplishments are you most proud of?

There’s a few. I’ve been with Hunterdon Healthcare for 19 years, this September. Being a Girl Scout leader for 13 years and having 2 of my 6 girls achieve their Gold Awards was big. Being nominated to the JDRF Mid-Jersey Board, and then, the NJ Metro & Rockland County Chapter Board of Directors has been an honor. And, of course, raising my 3 amazing children and watching their accomplishments.

Chrisie Scott

Chrisie Scott is an emotionally intelligent, digitally savvy, brand bohemian known for leading with heart with a unique blend of strategy and creativity. As the former Board President, Chrisie led with strategies, stories and heart to drive our chapter forward. 

Take a moment to introduce yourself and tell us a little about you!
Chrisie Scott, SVP and Chief Marketing Officer at Virtua Health

How did you get connected to JDRF?

My son, Austin was diagnosed when he was 17. A colleague had a Bag of Hope sent to us, and we did our first family Walk later that fall.

Why did you join the chapter Board of Directors?

I met Jess [Backofen, former Executive Director] through my role at work and the next thing I knew, I was being interviewed to be board member. A year in, I joined Kathleen [Fitzpatrick, former Board President] at the One Conference, and when we returned, they asked me to become the chapter president.

What inspires you? 

I am inspired by the resilience and spirit of all of the amazing individuals living with T1D, especially my son. I am so incredibly hopeful for the cures that research and science have in the works.

What do you wish to accomplish as a JDRF board member?

I want to help share and spread the story of the cause so that my son and others like him always feel that a cure is in reach.

What JDRF moment stands out to you the most?

Earlier this year, I met the founder of JDRF Lee Ducat. I was so inspired by how she sparked this organization into existence 50 years ago because of her love of her son with T1D.

Mark Taddeo

Mark Taddeo is a familiar face to many of our chapter members, especially if you’ve joined us at our JDRF Golf Classic. Mark leads with his knowledge, relationships and passion to drive our mission forward. 

Take a moment to introduce yourself and tell us a little about you!
Professionally, I’m VP, Sales for Direct Energy. Personally, I’m married to my wife Lois and have 2 children, Claudia (who has T1D) and my son Andrew.

Annually, I chair the JDRF Golf Classic. I’m very proud of our accomplishments, and over the last 13 years, helped raised more than $1MM for JDRF through the event.

How did you get connected to JDRF?

I joined the Board shortly after my daughter Claudia was diagnosed in 2007.

Why did you join the chapter Board of Directors?

I joined the Board because I wanted to learn more about T1D and I wanted to make a difference.

What inspires you? 

As a parent of a child with T1D, I know first hand what a T1D diagnosis means. I want to use my experience to help people.

What do you wish to accomplish as a JDRF board member?

I have over the years used my extensive personal and business connections to raise funds and awareness. I’m committed to supporting the JDRF for as long as it takes until we find a cure.

What JDRF moment stands out to you the most?

My family was recognized as “Family of the Year” at the Mid-Jersey Chapter annual Gala in 2016. This was a great moment for me personally.

Jon Wilk

Jon Wilk joined our chapter Board of Directors at a time when we needed a leader – one who possessed a strong passion for our mission, was laser-focused on helping JDRF thrive locally, and could serve as a cheerleader for our community.  Jon believes in the direction, leadership and mission of JDRF. His exemplary and substantive leadership truly helps us get to the end goal faster. 

Take a moment to introduce yourself and tell us a little about you!
I was born and raised in Pittsburgh (die hard Steeler’s and Penguin’s fan!) and live in Short Hills, NJ, with my wife Tracie and two boys (Noah, 19, and Alex, 16). I’m the CEO of a local manufacturing company that employs 750 people in NJ.

How did you get connected to JDRF?

My best friend in college had Type 1 diabetes and his family was part of the original organizing Chapter and Philadelphia. I supported his walk team in the early 90’s as my first connection to JDRF. My son Noah was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes 15 years ago. The extraordinary outreach and support that we received from the local JDRF chapter was a lifeline for our family at a time when we were struggling with Noah’s diagnosis, and our family got more deeply involved involved immediately with one of the top family walk teams in Charlotte, NC for more than 5 years. That evolved to ride, gala, golf involvement for my wife and I and the whole extended family.

Why did you join the chapter Board of Directors?

I joined the board of the Charlotte chapter and became Board President about 4 years later. We moved to NJ in 2011 and got involved with the Chapter here as we were combining three NJ chapters into one and was proud to be part of the team that led to NJ becoming one of the top 5 chapters in the country for JDRF.

What inspires you? 

Outreach and advocacy are the lifeblood of the organization and serving T1D families in need is what drives me everyday to work toward a cure for Noah and all of those people impacted by this disease.

What do you wish to accomplish as a JDRF board member?

Make a difference and help drive additional dollars to research through working on corporate sponsorship, major gifts, and overall chapter strategy.

What JDRF moment stands out to you the most?

For me finishing the 100 ride for a cure in Death Valley with the most amazing group of people is a highlight of my JDRF experience that I will never forget.