2026 Breakthrough T1D Walk

Breakthrough T1D, formerly JDRF, will welcome thousands of supporters and volunteers at the annual Breakthrough T1D Walk on Saturday, November 7, 2026 , at Houston Sports Park. The Breakthrough T1D Walk is a nationwide movement where hundreds of thousands rally in more than 130 events nationwide to transform the future for those with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The Breakthrough T1D Walk is the Houston community’s chance to support research and make a real difference for the T1D community. Led by Walk Chair Nelly White , a longtime supporter through her involvement leading the Williams Company employee Walk team. White is deeply inspired by the resilience of the community and the significant impact Breakthrough T1D makes every day to fund the research leading to life-changing breakthroughs. White will join Will Shappley as he serves this year as the Honorary Grand Marshal in the 1.5-mile walk. The Shappley journey with Type 1 Diabetes began when his daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 5. The Shappley family became involved with Breakthrough T1D shortly after Mary Ellis’s diagnosis and has remained deeply engaged ever since participating in annual walks, building “Team Mary Ellis,” and helping raise awareness, funding, and community support. The Junior Grand Marshal will be announced at the kickoff party on August 30, 2026, at Dave and Busters. All registered walkers will be placed into a drawing – with one entry for every $100 raised – and will have the honor of joining the Honorary Grand Mashal as they cut the ribbon and lead the Walk. Breakthrough T1D Southern Texas Territory Executive Rick Byrd and Chapter Sr. Director Deandrea Dillard will welcome guests to a fun-filled family friendly day of entertainment, including a Kid’s zone, carnival games, a sports-related inflatable obstacle course, photo booth, bracelet making, hair painting by Floyd’s Barber Shop, face painting, a balloon artist, and more. Safari Snuggles will host a Rufus Bear Clinic to repai