Our Team

We are a compassion-filled group of parents and professionals that volunteer for one reason: We want to serve the T1D Community and help families thrive.

A man with a beard and sunglasses on his head and a young girl with blonde hair, both smiling, standing in front of a blue backdrop with the words 'Breakthrough T1D Formerly JDRF' printed on it. They are wearing matching dark blue T-shirts with a mountain outline and the text 'I > D'.

Ryan Summers

Ryan is a thoughtful, grounded professional who brings calm energy and heartfelt support to both his work and the people around him. He’s known for approaching challenges with clarity and determination, and for creating spaces where people feel comfortable learning, connecting, and growing together.

Founder, Board President
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Dyea Summers

Dyea is a compassionate Physician Assistant who brings warmth, attentiveness, and genuine curiosity to every conversation and care she provides. With over a decade in medical practice, Dyea has a talent for making people feel comfortable and understood, whether she’s listening closely to a concern or helping someone make sense of their health journey.

Founder, Board Secretary
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Jacob Heilsberg

Jacob iis a Certified Public Accountant known for his steady, thoughtful approach and deep sense of integrity. He brings clarity to complex financial matters, focusing not just on the numbers, but on the people they impact.

Grounded, analytical, and dependable, Jacob is the kind of professional others rely on to make challenging situations feel manageable and well-supported.

Board Treasurer
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Laura Trembley

Healthcare & Advocacy Partner Relationships

Laura is a former primary care physician turned passionate advocate and educator within the type 1 diabetes community. She brings thoughtful curiosity, compassion, and calm to conversations about health, always focused on helping others feel informed, supported, and connected — especially during challenging moments like a new diagnosis.

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Laura Giesel

Laura blends curiosity, warmth, and an adventurous spirit into everything she does. She has a natural way of helping people feel comfortable and connected, whether she’s engaging in conversation, exploring new ideas, or simply bringing joy to those around her. 

Beyond her professional life, Laura is a devoted mother to an active, adventure-loving son living with type 1 diabetes. That experience has shaped her resilience, deepened her empathy, and inspired her to approach life — and parenting — with enthusiasm, flexibility, and a big heart for making memorable moments together.

Parents & Caregiver Support