Breakthrough T1D Promise Ball: “A Night in Black & White” Raises Close to $3.8 Million
Nearly 900 supporters joined Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) to secure close to $3.8 million in the pursuit of improved treatments and a cure for type 1 diabetes at the Annual Promise Ball, held at the Hilton Americas on Saturday, April 11, 2026.
The “A Night in Black & White” theme evoked a world of striking monochrome elegance setting the stage for an unforgettable evening in support of a meaningful cause.
A NIGHT FULL OF SURPRISES:
Guests were treated to a series of special surprises, including video messages from Michael Strahan of Good Morning America and renowned designer and television personality Nate Berkus.
More than 75 VIP guests enjoyed exclusive access to a private Mahjong for a Cure Salon prior to the Ball, hosted by Lady Mahj (Becky Livingstone), an experience that blended cultivated leisure with lively social connection. The experience was complemented by a refined Martini Bar and a custom fragrance experience by Perfume Bar Experience, where guests crafted their own signature scents.
A breathtaking performance by more than 30 ballerinas from Oriental Arts Education Center, each adorned in white with sweeping feathered accents captivated the audience both on stage and across the dance floor.
FUNDRAISING MAGIC:
The Fund A Cure portion of the evening featured the 2026 Fund A Cure family, Elizabeth and James Elder. Their powerful story inspired a record-breaking $2.2 million in contributions, directly advancing critical research efforts.
The live auction, led by Shawn Hamilton of Stokes Auction House, featured extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Highlights included a 2027 Wimbledon package with the opportunity to play tennis alongside legends Andre Agassi and John McEnroe, tickets to the Women’s Final, a luxury trip for four to the 2027 Masters at Berckmans Place, Augusta National Golf Club, an ultimate Super Bowl LXI experience in Los Angeles, and exclusive getaways to Aspen and WaterColor, among others.
Additional fundraising opportunities included the chance to win a pair of women’s 14-karat white gold diamond and moissanite earrings valued at $9,500, along with an elegant 18-karat white gold diamond pendant necklace valued at $3,400, generously donated by longtime supporter Nacol & Company.
Bidding was spirited during both the silent and “almost live” auctions, where guests vied for an array of coveted items and experiences, including luxury travel, designer handbags, fine jewelry, local arts experiences, and family packages, all curated by Auction Chair Lindsay Brochstein.
MORE INFORMATION:
Please visit https://www.breakthrought1d.org/greaterhoustontx/events/breakthrough-t1d-houston-promise-ball-2026/.