It was a magical evening at the JDRF South Jersey Chapter’s 2017 Gala, held on April 22, 2017 at The Westin Mt. Laurel, co-chaired by Marisa Herskovitz and Cindy Kramer.  Over 400 guests attended the Harry Potter themed fundraiser that included a cocktail reception and dinner, entertainment by EBE’s Imagine, silent and live auctions, and Fund A Cure.  Joining this year as celebrity emcees were Meisha Johnson and Dr. Jennifer Caudle, of CBS 3’s Eyewitness News, and auctioneer Steve Katz.

One of the evening’s highlights was honoring Dr. John M. Tedeschi for his many years of support through not only contributing, but being involved with JDRF in the quest to create a world without type 1 diabetes (T1D).  Surrounded by his friends and family, Dr. Tedeschi humbly accepted this highest honor award. He even assisted magician Amazing Mike for some surprise on-stage magic.

A very special moment was Fund A Cure speaker, Morgan Laufgraben, age 14, living with T1D. Morgan graciously spoke about this disease, and how it impacts her daily life; receiving a standing ovation by all.

Also recognized for his work in our community was Dr. Matthew H. Corcoran, founder and president of Diabetes Training Camp; receiving this year’s Distinguished Service Award.

The magic continued until midnight, when Mister Softee and Classic Cake surprised those that stayed until the very end with some late night treats. But the final act was no illusion as supporters and sponsors helped to raise a record-breaking $535,000 to further research to turn “Type One into Type None”.

https://jdrf-southjersey.ejoinme.org/gala2017