kovler 2015 impact report with addendum

GrowingUp Kovler Fulfilling our

promise to care and discover

2015 IMPACT REPORT

Caring for individuals with diabetes throughout their lifespan—from infants to adults—is our mission at the University of Chicago Medicine Kovler Diabetes Center.

kovlerdiabetescenter.org773.702.2371

KOVLER DIABETES CENTER 2015 IMPACT REPORT 1KOVLER DIABETES CENTER 2015 IMPACT REPORT 1

LOU PHILIPSON, MD, PHD, FACP

PROFESSOR, DEPARTMENTS OF MEDICINE AND PEDIATRICS;

SECTION OF ADULT AND PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY,

DIABETES, AND METABOLISM;

DIRECTOR, KOVLER DIABETES CENTER

“We are growing at the Kovler Diabetes Center. We are advancing science, treatment, and care, and our patients are growing with us. I see lives change for the better—and that’s why I do what I do.”

2 GROWING UP KOVLER

As the number of people with diabetes dramatically increases each year, Kovler’s physicians and scientistsare expanding knowledge of the disease and developing new treatments. Every day, the goal is to pursue new ways to better manage and even prevent diabetes while delivering comprehensive care to patients. In treating the whole person, we help our patients thrive.

GrowingUp Kovler Fulfilling our

promise to care and discover

2 GROWING UP KOVLER

4 GROWING UP KOVLER

“Werefuse to letdiabetes slowusdown.”

JamieAge4

KOVLER DIABETES CENTER 2015 IMPACT REPORT 5

When their son Jamie was diagnosed with type 1

diabetes at 18 months, Stacy and Dennis Stonequist

understood that the disease was going to be a lot of

work: a regimented treatment schedule, a controlled

diet, and a permeating fear of not being able to

control his glucose levels.

Dennis admits that the first six months coping

with Jamie’s diabetes were the hardest, and Kovler

shepherded the whole family into their new role in

caring for him. Rochelle Naylor, MD, helped them

cope by always being completely accessible to

them. “She was with us every step of the way,”

Dennis said.

Naylor also helped the family improve Jamie’s care

by recommending an insulin pump, which has

changed their lives for the better. Dennis was adverse

to big changes at first, but Naylor has helped them

adapt. Her care is so personalized that they feel like

Jamie is her only patient.

“When you get a diagnosis like this, there are a few

ways it can go. It can make you struggle, or it can

make you stronger,” Dennis said. “There are times

of conflict and times of fear, sure, but the team

atmosphere they have is contagious and helpful.”

Both Stacy and Dennis feel that they have grown

to be a closer, tighter family—and a good team—

because of Kovler’s guidance. “The most important

thing that we’ve learned from them is that Jamie is

a kid—a person—not a diabetic. We are able to let

him be a kid.”

6 GROWING UP KOVLER

Today, five-year-old Kylie Howard feels good. She is

excited about reading, math, and Spanish, and looks

forward to playing tennis.

Kylie’s parents, Shenika and Travis, were devastated

when they found out that she had type 1 diabetes.

“We were in shock—it was sort of paralyzing,” Shenika

said. “But the care we received at Kovler was phe-

nomenal. The team was so empathetic and patient—

we had everything we needed right there—and they

helped us take action.” Kylie likes Kovler so much

that she even looks forward to going to the doctor.

Kylie was referred to the Kovler Diabetes Center by

University of Chicago Medicine Comer Children’s

Hospital. Through care and education, Kovler team

members helped the whole family understand the

lifestyle changes that were going to come with the

disease. “For me, personally, I learned that this was

not the end—that she would be okay,” Travis said.

“Just because you have diabetes doesn’t mean you

can’t function.”

Though only five, Kylie watches her diet more

successfully than most adults and even keeps her

own parents in line. “Sometimes I check her glucose

levels early in the morning when she is still asleep.

When she wakes up she will ask, ‘Did you check

me, mamma?’” Shenika said. “She also tells people

when she shouldn’t eat something—she’s really

matured a lot since her diagnosis.”

Shenika, who is a pharmacy technician, has been so

inspired by the physicians and staff at Kovler that

she is studying to be a certified diabetes educator,

and enjoys passing on what she’s learned.

“Iam brave.”

KylieAge5

6 GROWING UP KOVLER

8 GROWING UP KOVLER8 GROWING UP KOVLER


“Iamlivingagood life.”

“The care at Kovler has been great—they have done

so many helpful things for me. It’s been two years,

but I feel like I’ve been there my whole life,” said

12-year-old Liv Zucker.

Diagnosed at ten, her treatment was difficult in the

beginning. However, since coming to Kovler, Liv feels

like she has a pretty good handle on things and is able

to take care of herself with ease. She says that without

the Kovler team she wouldn’t know how to do that.

For an active teen like Liv who loves soccer, tennis,

and going to the movies or the park with her girl-

friends—and sometimes meeting up with boys—

management of her disease is very important for her.

“Liv is an amazing pre-teen,” said her physician,

Louis Philipson, MD, PhD. “She has learned how to

take care of herself at such a young age, and her

spirit is a driver of her success.”

Liv and her mother, Franny, would love to see a cure

for type 1 diabetes in Liv’s lifetime. “There is nothing

in particular that I would want to change about my

diabetes. I just don’t want to have it,” Liv said.

To give back to other families, Liv has spent the past

several months using her experience to work with

kids who are newly diagnosed with type 1. She gives

them hope and lets them know that everything will

get easier. After all, she is the perfect example.

LivAge12


10 GROWING UP KOVLER

Hailey Brown and her older sister, Kelsey, both have

type 1 diabetes. Despite the 10-year age difference,

they share a close sisterly bond, made even stronger

through mutual support in managing their diabetes.

When Hailey was just three and Kelsey was entering

adolescence, the family began searching for more

comprehensive and advanced care for the girls, who

received their insulin therapy through daily shots.

The search led the family to Kovler. Lou Philipson

MD, PhD and diabetes educator Amy Hess Fischl

recommended that both Kelsey and Hailey begin

using insulin pumps, which provide more customized

insulin therapy.

After nine years of care and education at Kovler,

a positive role model in her big sister, and a high

level of comfort with advanced diabetes technology,

Hailey, now 12, has many of the skills needed to

independently manage her diabetes.

“We have watched Kelsey mentor and support Hailey,"

says Hess Fischl. “Now, Hailey has the skills and

talent to help others, including her peers in InTransit,

Kovler's unique program to help teens and their

families.”

Hailey's mom, Theresa, says she appreciates the

peace of mind that comes with knowing her girls are

receiving the best possible care—especially now

that Kelsey is attending college in Washington, D.C.,

and Hailey is old enough to pursue many different

interests, including music and scuba diving.

“The doctors at Kovler have always supported me,”

Hailey says. “They tell me that diabetes should

never stop me from doing anything.”

HaileyAge12&KelseyAge22

“ Diabetes neverstops me from doing anything.”



“Idon’t let diabetes defineme.”

Mark Miniat started his journey with the Kovler

Diabetes Center at age 16 after being diagnosed

with type 1 ten years earlier. He was seeking a

stronger doctor-patient relationship, and came to

Kovler through the InTransit program that helps

teens and their families adjust to living with the

disease.

Mark still remembers his instant connection with

Lou Philipson, MD, PhD, during their first visit. Today,

he feels that Philipson and diabetes educator Amy

Hess Fischl have supported his entire adult life.

“They understand every part of my life with diabetes,”

he said. “When I was a kid, it was about sports and

how to maintain a healthy glucose level. Now, it is

about balancing work and social life, keeping my

stress low, and stepping back from time to time to

evaluate my treatment.”

Now 26, Mark has learned to adjust to changes in

lifestyle that come with adulthood—and his trust and

faith in his physician have helped him to open up even

more about how he is feeling about his treatment.

“I want to do everything I can to embrace that

diabetes is a part of me, but it doesn’t define me,”

Mark said. He has really come into his own over the

20 years he has lived with diabetes, and his control

of the disease continues to get better. In maintaining

a healthy lifestyle and a positive attitude, Mark

refuses to let diabetes get in his way.

MarkAge26

“Iam incontrol ofmydiabetes.”

After Allen Gray was diagnosed with type 1 at

40 years old, it was a trip to the hospital in an

ambulance that was his breaking point. He knew he

needed better care and a little more help adjusting.

Ten years ago, he was referred to the Kovler

Diabetes Center by his primary care physician

and hasn’t looked back. “If they moved to Florida,

I would make the trip. No one holds a candle to

the type of care Dr. Philipson and Amy Hess Fischl

provide,” he said.

Allen’s diabetes is now well controlled and has

become a “minor presence” in his life. How far he’s

come is a testament to the work Kovler’s doctors

and educators do, and to Allen’s own determination.

“They saw my life. They saw me, and they knew what

I needed. And, what’s more, they convinced me to

make a big lifestyle change by incorporating new

technology into my regimen.”

Allen is thankful for the freedom he has found, the

knowledge he has gained, and the care he receives

at Kovler. “Everyone is different,” he said. “Diabetes

is a very individual disease. There isn’t a set of rules

that fits for everyone, and that’s the scariest part.

My hope was to get to a certain point with my

diabetes—a good quality of life—and here I am. I

got here because of them. I know my Kovler story

well. I know it so well because it’s in my heart.”

AllenAge74


In 2014, the International Diabetes Federation estimatedthat 387 million people worldwide were living with sometype of diabetes, and that number is expected to rise tonearly 600 million by 2035. This daunting statistic isa call to action, and we have worked hard at Kovler togrow our programs at a rapid rate in order to stay ahead of this prevalent disease. Our advancements allow us tohelp people like Kylie, Liv, Mark, Allen, the Brown andStonequist families, and thousands more like them withall types of the disease.

KovlerGrowingUp

Fulfilling our promise to care and discover


INPATIENT DIABETES EDUCATION:

Personalized support

At any given time, almost 30 percent of University of Chicago Medicine hospital

patients have diabetes. Physicians and staff recognized that many of these patients

needed more education and tools to manage their diabetes before going home. To

help patients become more informed and healthier before they are discharged, Kovler

and nursing leadership created the inpatient diabetes education team. Educators like

Nancy Jerger, a clinical nurse, have helped hundreds of patients—as well as the broader

hospital staff—understand the importance of proper self-management and lifestyle changes.

She and other educators provide one-on-one education at the hospital bedside, often with

a patient's family and friends present. Between 2014 and 2015, the inpatient diabetes

education team expanded, enabling them to double the number of patients they serve.

“We teach patients in the hospital how to eat healthier,monitor blood sugars, take medications properly, and prevent acute and chronic diabetes complications. It is through education of both staff and patients that we are changing lives.”

NANCY JERGER, RN, RD, CDE

CLINICAL NURSE EDUCATOR

“I am looking forward tobeing part of a growing team over the next year. My favorite part of this job is helping patients learn something new aboutdiabetes. Seeing everything ‘click’ is a great feeling.”

JENNIFER JOHNSON,

BSN, RN, CCRN, CPN

CLINICAL NURSE EDUCATOR


OUTPATIENT DIABETES EDUCATION:

Helping diabetes patients with busy lives thrive

When Monica Rojas joined the outpatient diabetes education team, she knew going in

that Kovler would support her ambitious ideas. “When I wanted to help grow this program,

they let me run with it,” she said. Since she started a year ago, she has expanded diabetes

education and support within the two satellite clinics on Huron Street in downtown Chicago

and in Merrillville, Indiana. She increased the availability of new technology to patients at these

locations, such as continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) with insulin pumps, and teaches several

diabetes education classes to Kovler patients and members of the community. Her bilingual

abilities in Spanish have also helped her connect with more people and meet the needs of

the surrounding communities. Kovler’s impact in Northwest Indiana has been significant,

and Monica looks forward to having two more educators join the team.

“I am so grateful for the diabetes educators. As Dr. Philipson says, if a family has seen the educator on their appointment day, the important stuff has been done.”

DORIT KOREN, MD

PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGIST

“Having diabetes does not make life easier. Our goal as educators is to offer something that will ease theirburden through education,group support, or new technology like CGM andpumps. In many cases, we are able to give moms and dads a better night’s sleep.”

MONICA ROJAS, RD, CDE

OUTPATIENT DIABETES EDUCATOR


“Many of the patients I see havebeen working with me for over tenyears—even before I came to theKovler Diabetes Center. Watchingthese incredible people grow upand mature, and seeing diabetescare in action, really makes megrateful for the job I have.” AMY HESS FISCHL, MS, RD, LDN, BC-ADM, CDE


INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS

Expanding Kovler’s impact

Emilio Williams of the University of Chicago

Medicine’s International Programs, is focused

on positioning Kovler as a first-choice interna-

tional center for diabetes care and research.

In 2014, Emilio expanded the University of

Chicago Medicine's International Programs to

focus on connecting individuals from around

the world with precise, customized medical

care. “The global prevalence of diabetes is

daunting,” he said. “The rates of mismanage-

ment and lack of health care access are also

big issues.” His goal is to further diversify

where Kovler’s diabetes patients come from

by expanding programming to include regions

and countries such as China, India, Eastern

Europe, Latin America, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait,

and Canada. In doing so, he will not only improve

the education and care for these patients, but

also help scientists further discern how diabetes

affects people differently. “Diabetes impacts

patients in different ways,” he said. “Diversity

can help providers better understand the

genetic, cultural, and psychosocial implications

of the disease.”

People are traveling to Kovler from all over the

world for the outstanding resources and care

provided. With comprehensive services such as

interpretation, transportation, and temporary

housing, Emilio’s team works hard to help

patients from other countries feel like they are

at home and with family while at the University

of Chicago. “We offer ‘red carpet’ treatment

for our patients,” Emilio said. “We want them to

feel happy and comfortable here.” He believes

that we can change the lives of people both

domestically and worldwide by expanding

our reach.

Primary care physicians at the University of

Chicago Medicine see more patients with

type 2 diabetes than physician colleagues in

endocrinology. In order to provide the best

comprehensive care, both teams must work

together to combat the rising number of type 2

cases through proper diabetes education. To

meet this growing need, the Kovler Diabetes

Center launched an expansion of the Jim Tyree

Diabetes Education Library in the primary care

clinic in the Duchossois Center for Advanced

Medicine in 2015. The expansion helps Kovler

reach more patients within the primary care

practice, which is also the largest training

ground for medical residents and fellows. The

new location facilitates education by providing

tools that help teach the best aspects of

diabetes care. “Our patient demographic at

the University of Chicago has disproportionately

more cases of diabetes than our counterparts,”

said Lynda Hale. “Education of both patients

and staff is key to making an impact.”

“We are looking to make a big difference by increasing Kovler’s footprint inChicago and abroad—as an internationaldestination—to help more people in need of our services.”

EMILIO WILLIAMS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO

MEDICINE INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS

TYREE LIBRARY

Disseminating knowledge

“The intersection of the primary care groupand the Kovler Diabetes Center is a perfectexample of collaborative patient care. Somepatients with diabetes have unique or urgentneeds, and Kovler sends them back to theirphysician in better health.”

LYNDA HALE

AMBULATORY DIRECTOR, PRIMARY CARE,

GERIATRICS, PSYCHIATRY AND MEDICINE SPECIALTIES


Advancing monogenic research

“Having more minority representation in the registry will allow us to see if our treatments work for everyone. In medicine, one-size-fits-all doesn’t always work, and the more people we can learn from, the better we will be at helping everyone.”

ROCHELLE NAYLOR, MD

Rochelle Naylor, MD, is a physician-scientist researching

genetic forms of diabetes. She is particularly interested in

the genetics of a type of monogenic diabetes called maturity-

onset diabetes of the young, or MODY. Naylor helped establish

the MODY registry in 2010, and has since found that data

from participants in the MODY registry show that racial

minorities are underrepresented. This could mean that many are

potentially excluded from the benefits of a MODY diagnosis—

such as switching from insulin injections to one pill a day. To

close this gap, Naylor is trying to find out what barriers exist,

and understand minority perspectives on genetic testing

through one-on-one interviews and focus groups. The themes

that emerge from her investigations will translate knowledge

of diabetes genetics into improved patient outcomes.

“There are so many wonderful people working tirelessly on diabetes research here at UChicago. This is an extremely passionate group of people who love not only the nitty-gritty details of science, but also the practical application to the most important people, our patients. We truly couldn’t do any of this without patientparticipation—patients make our work possible.”

LISA LETOURNEAU, MPH, RD

Lisa Letourneau, hired in 2014 as the new research coordinator

for monogenic diabetes, has been naturally curious and data-

driven since she was a child. She is a perfect fit to grow and

manage the monogenic diabetes registry. The registry now

has over 1500 individuals from 49 states and 15 countries,

and is the only one of its kind in the United States. Lisa and

her team are brainstorming new ways to study monogenic

diabetes, identify correlations to type 1, and improve the lives

of our registry participants. She looks forward to having a

hand in accurate re-diagnoses and personalized treatment,

and, in some cases, witnessing patients turn off their insulin

pumps for good.

JOURNEY TO A MIRACLE

Leadership Board member Laurie Jaffe’s

award-winning documentary, Journey

to a Miracle: Freedom from Insulin,

debuted on Chicago public television

station WTTW-11, a PBS station, in

January. Throughout 2015, the film has

been screened at a number of events

and film festivals across the country.

Journey to a Miracle follows three

families affected by monogenic diabetes

on their paths to re-diagnosis and the

life-changing transition from insulin

treatment to pills. The film showcases

the work of world-renowned scientists

and physicians including Drs. Louis

Philipson, Graeme Bell, and Siri Greeley

of the Kovler Diabetes Center.

The film has been embraced by both

the diabetes community and the film

industry, having captured a number of

awards during its U.S. tour. Its broad

reach continues to significantly raise

awareness about monogenic diabetes

among the general public, which,

in turn, helps increase enrollment in

the national monogenic diabetes

registry housed at Kovler, and enables

expansion of research into this

genetic condition.


Funded by an NIH grant, the University of Chicago’s

Restoring Insulin Secretion (RISE) Study has grown

to be a powerhouse for research focused on the

function of pancreatic beta cells—the cells that

synthesize, store, and release insulin. The study aims

to determine whether early interventions could

prevent or delay the development of diabetes

in adults.

“This work is very gratifying,” Ehrmann said. “When

we gain insight into what underlies the conversion

from pre-diabetes to diabetes, we become better

able to reduce the burden of the disease—and

that’s what drives us every day.” Ehrmann credits

his success to his wonderful and dedicated staff.

“The interest in the science is motivating to the

people here. This is a place where doing innovative

clinical research is both feasible and encouraged.”

Participants in RISE are treated for 12 months. They

begin with a glucose screening that tests their

beta cell function, and then spend the next year on

one of four different treatments. Their goal is to

enroll 85 people in the study, and they are currently

halfway there.

“Pre-diabetes is a condition that is common and

easily detected, but there is no FDA-approved drug

for intervention,” he said. Ehrmann’s team wants to

reach a greater understanding of beta cell function

in order to develop an intervention that preserves

insulin secretion, and the results of the RISE

Study are helping to advance their knowledge

and progress their work.

Ehrmann is optimistic and motivated. “The excep-

tional skill and dedication of the physicians and

staff at the Kovler Diabetes Center have bolstered

our patient recruitment efforts, and we are lucky

to have them on our team.”

Rising to the occasion: The potential for improving beta cell function

David Ehrmann, MD, professor of medicine in the Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, starts every day looking forward to helping people who are at risk for developing diabetes. The more he and his colleagues learn, the closer they get to preventing type 2.

“The interest in the science is motivating to the people here.

This is a place where doing innovative clinical research is both feasible and encouraged.”

DAVID EHRMANN, MD


TrialNetDiabetes TrialNet is an international group of researchers searching for a way to prevent type 1 diabetes, and offers a unique chance for proactive management of the disease. Kovler serves as the only Chicago center for this work, and provides a place for individuals—and entire families—to get tested for antibodies that can indicate whether or not they may have the propensity to develop diabetes in their lifetime. The study has shown that early detection leads to better patient outcomes. Families have multiple options for testing—including simple kits they can use at home—andKovler now offers testing and prevention trials for new onset type 1 diabetes, also the only such center in the area.

Over the next year, Gail Gannon, Kovler’s clinical trials manager, will expand the team by hiring more students and research staff—invaluable resources that drive our progress. Her biggest goal is to help more patients and families feel hopeful.


GAIL GANNON, APN, FNP-C

CLINICAL TRIALS MANAGER

Gail was hired in 2015 to

facilitate multiple clinical

studies—including recruiting

participants for the Diabetes

TrialNet study—and to broaden

Kovler’s clinical research impact

by attending events, educating

patients, and networking within

the Chicago community.

“Ultimately, I want a cure.I dream of the day thatimmune systems are restored, and no one has to know the rollercoaster of this disease.” GAIL GANNON, APN, FNP-C


Can you talk a little bit

about your involvement

in Diabetes TrialNet?

Our daughter Olivia, who is now

eight, was diagnosed with type 1

two years ago. Her diagnosis was

a total shock to us. No one is ever

really prepared for this kind of

thing, and our doctor suggested

we participate in Diabetes TrialNet

because we have three other

children—Marissa, nine; Rebecca,

six; and Joshua, four. TrialNet will

help us stay prepared and not get

blind-sided.

When Ron Kent heard about Diabetes TrialNet, he thought it would be a smart idea to have his whole family get tested. We connected with himto find out a little more about what Diabetes TrialNet means to the Kent family.

TrialNet


What was testing like

for your family?

When we were at the testing center,

they used a numbing cream on the

kids before taking the blood sample.

My kids are not that brave, and none

of them cried or were scared doing

it. It was simple and quick. It’s a small

needle, no one felt it, and then they

got treats afterward. It really was a

fun event for them—they saw it as

kind of a cool thing to do!

For my wife and me, participating

was also a great way to meet other

people and families in the diabetes

world. We met a lot of great people

that we would never have met

otherwise, and we stay in touch

and support one another.

What were your test results?

How have your lives changed,

if at all, since being tested?

My wife and son were tested in

June and the results were negative,

but we are still waiting on mine and

our two daughters’. We are not living

in anxiety over the results—we see

it as a chance to be aware. If one of

us tests positive, it gives us a chance

to prepare and the ultimate diagnosis

won’t hit us so hard.

Why do you think the Diabetes

TrialNet study is important?

Preparation is huge. A whole new

and overwhelming world is dropped

in your lap when your kid or another

family member has diabetes, and

Diabetes TrialNet softens the blow.

Also, any time you can do a study

like this, you get crucial information

for your own life, and you also give

information to researchers. Knowl-

edge is power. The more we can

understand the disease, the better

we will be at preventing it and

providing treatment.

Would you encourage

others to get tested?

I encourage everyone to get

tested through Diabetes TrialNet. If

this test can help this generation or

the next, it’s our duty to participate.

There was a period of shock when

our daughter was first diagnosed.

If we have the opportunity to take

that shock away from others and

possibly take away the need to

constantly worry and check blood

sugar, it’s our responsibility to do so.

The test is an easy, simple thing

that can go a long way in investing

in the future of kids with diabetes.

The possibilities that can come out

of it—whether it be preparation,

prevention, or a cure—shouldn’t

be passed up.



MakingGrowthPossible

At the end of the day, philanthropy is what drives research and care at Kovler. As government fundinggrows increasingly restricted, some of the best ideas areat risk of being unrealized. Our friends and donorsmake it possible to stay at the forefront of diabetes education, technology, and care. Your impact runs deep,and Kovler is grateful for these important partnerships.


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Jay Franke, an accomplished professional dancer

and champion of the arts, was diagnosed with

type 1 diabetes at the age of 30 while on tour.

“The diagnosis was completely unexpected,” he

said. “It was because of Dr. Philipson and Amy

Hess Fischl that I was able to continue to dance.”

For Jay, Kovler’s physicians and staff have been

strong allies in helping him to live well despite

his diabetes. “Their role for thousands of us with

the disease is providing hope and a pathway to

healthy living,” he said. “Diabetes requires constant

care and management, it never takes a day off,

and it's always been a relief to know there is a

team that understands this and is there to help.”

For his 40th birthday last year, Jay decided it would

be a fitting tribute to ask his friends to donate to

the Kovler Diabetes Center in lieu of personal gifts. “It

was an easy decision. The generosity of my guests was

humbling—they truly made it a memorable birthday for

me by helping Kovler advance their research and care.”

Jay stands behind the work of the Kovler Diabetes

Center for its unique and focused research efforts.

What is even more meaningful to Jay is Kovler’s

influence on Chicago’s South Side and surrounding

neighborhoods. “Kovler plays a vital role in educating

the community about diabetes. Even more importantly,

they have become a ’home base’ for thousands affected

by the disease. That is an important thing to support.”

“Igive toensure the continuedgrowthandsuccessof Kovler.”Jay


“Together wecanmake a hugedifference.”Franny Zucker first got involved with Friends

United—a non-profit based in Highland Park, Illinois,

that invests in type 1 diabetes research—to support

her friend, Susan Mandell, whose son had been

recently diagnosed with the disease. Several years

after Franny joined Friends United, her own daughter,

Liv, was also diagnosed with type 1. “It was ironic,”

she said. “I became the one that needed support,

and Susan led us to the Kovler Diabetes Center.”

Franny is focused on supporting organizations that

not only have the potential to find a cure for type 1,

but also stay ahead of technological advancements

that make lives easier. She has been a tenacious

advocate for Kovler.

On January 25, 2015, Friends United hosted a

benefit for diabetes research at the Metro in Chicago.

Famed musician Michael Franti performed for an

audience of over 500. “The people attended for

many different reasons, and all wanted to make

the world a better place,” Franny said. From the

donations collected that night, $100,000 was

gifted to Kovler to support diabetes research and

technology advancement.

Friends United supports many different physicians

and labs in the United States, but Franny looks at

it like betting on a horse. “It’s important to support

organizations who are trying to find a cure, and I

put my money on Kovler because I believe that they

will come in first.”

Franny


When Margie Teller’s daughter, Rachel, was diag-

nosed with type 1 at 18 months old, Margie was

compelled to take action. She wanted to make

a difference for families living with diabetes. She

founded Friends for the Cure, a group that brings

together her friends and business associates to

rally for the cause.

Friends for the Cure has championed nine galas to

raise money for diabetes research. Three hundred

attended the first gala in 2005, which doubled

in 2015. All proceeds were directed to diabetes

research, and since 2014, solely to benefit the

Kovler Diabetes Center.

“We switched Rachel's care to Kovler three

years ago,” she said. “I am so impressed with the

physicians and staff there, and they make such

a difference in my daughter's life. Kovler was the

only place that treated her whole self. Seeing and

experiencing that motivated me to turn our efforts

exclusively toward them.”

Margie feels it's important to give to organizations

like Kovler because of cuts in government funding

for science research. “It is getting harder and harder

for researchers to find money. The more we raise

on our own equates to more time researchers can

spend in the lab. I know that if a cure is found it

will either be at Kovler, or they will have contributed

in a major way. I am thrilled to be a part of that.”

“By raising money, wecan helpKovler’s researchers spendevenmore time in the lab.” Margie



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Chicago Bulls Center Nazr Mohammed’s connections

to both diabetes and Chicago run deep. Nazr’s

foundation supports causes that have affected him

throughout his life, and the South Side native has

known for years that he wanted to do something

big to support diabetes research and treatment.

In 2014, “big” meant throwing a benefit in honor

of the Kovler Diabetes Center.

“Having grown up in the Hyde Park area, it was a

no-brainer selecting Kovler as the beneficiary,” Nazr

said. “They’re not only an important presence in

my community, but they have really helped my family.

My mom has type 2 and my brother type 1.” The funds

raised would help families, and also help Kovler

“continue the great work they are already doing.”

Nazr used his celebrity to attract an affluent crowd,

and was able to raise $35,000. “It was satisfying

to see everyone’s willingness to participate and

donate to a great cause.”

Nazr thinks it’s important to support diabetes

research and care because of the impact funding

can have on the community and the organization

it supports. “It’s our social responsibility to give

back to our communities in any way we can,” he

said. “It’s a wonderful feeling to be able to raise

funds to give to a cause that has affected my

life for as long as I can remember.”

“ Iwant togive back tomy community.”Nazr


In 2006, six-year-old Lilly Jaffe received a life-

changing diagnosis. A DNA test at the Kovler

Diabetes Center revealed that Lilly had monogenic

diabetes, not type 1 diabetes as her doctor had

diagnosed shortly after her birth. Lilly was able to

transition from insulin shots to oral medication

to manage her condition.

“It was incredible to watch Lilly disconnect her

insulin pump for the last time,” says Lilly's mother,

Laurie Jaffe. “The experience was as overwhelmingly

joyful as her initial diagnosis had been devastating.”

Laurie has since leveraged her professional back-

ground in communications and public affairs to

advocate for other families. Her passion shines

through in the documentary Journey to a Miracle

(see page 27). The film, which took five years for

the Jaffes to make and included travel to three

countries, depicts the experiences of three families

affected by monogenic diabetes. This genetic

condition affects up to 500,000 people in the

United States, many of whom are misdiagnosed

and not receiving the right treatment.

Today, the Jaffes travel throughout the United States

to present the documentary at film festivals and help

raise awareness of the importance of an accurate

diabetes diagnosis. As a Kovler communications

advisor and Leadership Board member, Laurie is also

able to share information about other important

clinical research at Kovler.

“We are so grateful for Laurie's work,” says Kovler

Executive Director Peggy Hasenauer, MS, RN. “Her

commitment and vision inspire all of us at Kovler

to do more and be more for people who face the

daily challenges of diabetes.”

“Our family is inspired to raise awareness andshare hopewith others.”Laurie


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Founder ($100,000 AND ABOVE)

Friends United

Mindy and Jonathan Gray

James Tyree Foundation

Ernest D Semersky

Innovator ($50,000 - $99,999)

Jay Franke and David Herro

Mike and Laurie Jaffe

Benefactor ($25,000 - $49,999)

Akoya Capital Partners**

Doug and Mary Jo Basler

Kevin and Kara Boyle

Sally and Jonathan Kovler

Nazr Mohammed

Southern Wine and Spirits of Illinois**

The Robert and Jamie Taylor Foundation

Margie Teller*

Patron ($10,000 - $24,999)

Adams Plastics

Robert and Lisa Allegra*

Ken Alpart**

Butterfield and Robinson**

Jeffrey Cardot

The Clearing Corporation

Douglas Lee Harmon

Hull Family Foundation

David Kaye and Judith Teller-Kaye

Michael Coleman LLC**

David and Lisa Miniat*

Summit Executive Center*

Michael Sweig

Bruce and Beverly Young

Explorer ($5,000 - $9,999)

Celebrity Cruises**

Chipotle Mexican Grill

Chuhak & Tecson P.C.

CME Group, Inc.

Dirk and Caroline Degenaars

DRW Holdings**

Grace and Doug Fox

Karen Haycox**

William and Elisabeth Landes

George and Cynthia Lyman

Packard Research Foundation

Resorts West**

Robert and Nancy Rotering

Margaret Schnell

The Nugent Event Network**

Stern Pinball, Inc**

Kenneth and Lydia Polonsky

Eve Tyree

Mary Alice Wheeler

Sponsor ($2,500 - $4,999)

Michael and Sarah Alter

Jeremie Bacon

Bill Nygren Foundation

Gator Trading Partners LLC

Michelle and Michael Episcope

Everybody Loves Nick

Peter and Paula Fasseas

Fortune Fish Company

David and Linda Gill

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

George Gomez**

Stuart and Deborah Gordon

Antonio and Sabrina Gracias

Thomas and Peggy Hasenauer

Holtzmann's**

Ellen Itskovitz*

Waltraud Legat*

Felicia and Ronald Levin

James Lustman

Mesirow Financial

Charles and Joan Moore

Nuance Solutions

Louis and Lynn Philipson

David Rubin

Mara Sandler

Small Luxury Hotels**

Stella Artois**

Regina Taylor

Thomas Masters Gallery**

Steven and Patricia Winegar

Supporter ($1,000 - $2,499)

Haleyur and Veena Arun

Jarrett Banwart and Sheila McShane

Dale Bearden

Terry and Amy Becker**

Elizabeth Bilodeau

Victoria Boucher

Pat Bradfield

Hilary Bruce

Daniel Burkwald

Julie Cameron

Chicago Cut**

Compliance Program Management, LLC

Bryan and Catherine Daniels

Andrew Davis

Justin Dedeaux**

Erie-LaSalle Body Shop**

Extreme Marketing LLC

Erin Fauber

Tammy Fischer

Helen Flanagan

William Forsyth III and Martha Goldrich-Forsyth

Four Seasons Hotel Chicago**

GLAS Funds

Brian Golinvaux and Travis Larson*

Robert Gottfred

Randy Hack**

Susan Hagberg

David and Joan Hoese

The Inn at Palmetto Bluff**

Billy Joel**

Maria Kelly

James Kennedy

Erik Kesteloot

Margot Levin Family Fund

Mark Ladner**

Lakeshore Securities, LLC

Steven Laporta

Lewis and Susan Manilow

Rocco and Roxanne Martino

We are pleased to acknowledge our friends

and supporters and we thank them for their

contributions to our mission in the last fiscal year.fiscal year: July 2014-June 2015

Corey McQuade

Millennium Properties R/E Inc.

Chris Morrow**

Mor Weath Management Operating

Neiman Marcus**

Cathy Bruni Norris**

J Duff O'Donnell

Pinnacle Pain Management

Prada USA**

Pure Kitchen Catering

Matthew Ramer

Karen and James Reid II

Reynoso Vineyards**

Joseph Rickard*

Margaret Rodkin

Margo and Harold Russell

Michael Sacks

Saks Fifth Avenue**

Shira Saville

Fred Schuster*

Serenity Springs**

Barbara and Neal Shact

Shaw Hospitality Group

Nancy Silberman

Sisley**

Kenneth A Steel Jr

David Stein

Keith Stein

Iliana Sweis

Takohl Gallery of Jewels**

Laura Teller

George Tenet and Stephanie Glakas-Tenet

Sally and Scott Tyler

Jared Van Camp**

Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC

James White

Stephen White

Morton Zwick

Friend (UNDER $1,000)

Janet Berkeley

Melanie Biche

Sandra Bones

Philip and Susan Brilliant

Trisha Bruening

Andrew Burchill

Gregory Cameron and Greg Thompson

Katherine Crane

Doris Dahl

Toni Deonier

Teri Drymalski

Earl and Linda Faber

David Fox and Chris Stone

Denise Friedman

Susan Goodell

George Goodman

Joshua Hale

Ray and Susan Hale

Garry Haliburton

Daniel Hartman

Corinne Herro

Paul Herro

Elizabeth Insley

David and Joan Karlin

Lisa Kennemer

Lisa Key

John Kloecker

Jeffrey Kolb

Gale Landers

Robert and Diane Levy

Matt McAreavey

Sandra Montgomery

Faris Nijim

Claudia Niles

Wayne Niles

Orland Paulsen

Mary Jo Quackenboss

Richard and Margaret Romano

Harry Rosenberg

Jeffrey Rubenstein

Lisa Walker and Bill Rudnick

Fern Schless

Deborah Smith and George Glassmeyer

Rosemary Solecki

Richard and Cindy Strup

Trent Vanbockern

Marian Wetterling

Gregory White

John Palmer White

Robert Yamins

Michael and Francesca Zucker

* in kind support

** partial in kind support

Next year, the Kovler Diabetes Center will celebrate its

ten-year anniversary. Jonathan and I are amazed by what

has been accomplished since we founded Kovler. We are

looking forward to what the future holds, and the discoveries

and new therapies that will come from the hard work of our

physicians and scientists. More importantly, we couldn’t do

this without our families, friends, volunteers, and donors.

SALLY KOVLER

FOUNDER AND CHAIRPERSON, KOVLER LEADERSHIP BOARD

“There is no place like Kovler.”



The physicians and staff at the Kovler Diabetes Centerhave a gift for healing, teaching, and inspiring.

We have the ambitious goal of raising $2 million for our 10th anniversary.Your gift can help us solve the most complex issues in diabetes,

carry foward our legacy of achievement, and translate research

insights into solutions that continue to change the landscape of

diabetes treatment and care.

Everybody has a gift. Imagine the impact yours can make.

Growwithus. kovlerdiabetescenter.org/growingupkovler 773.702.2371


Kovler Diabetes Center

DirectorLouis H. Philipson, MD, PhD, FACPProfessor Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics

Executive DirectorPeggy Hasenauer, MS, RN

Community Outreach CoordinatorCarla Henault

Development TeamSean CampbellBrad JoutrasTerri TyeMargo Weitzman

Communications ConsultantRachel Lieberman

Social Media CoordinatorCarrie Chui

Kovler Executive Team

Graeme I. Bell, PhDLouis Block Distinguished professor in Medicine and Human Genetics; Director, University of Chicago Diabetes Research and Training Center

Ronald Cohen, MDSection Chief, Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

David Ehrmann, MDProfessor of Medicine, Director, University of Chicago Center for PCOS

Elizabeth Littlejohn, MDAssociate Professor of Pediatrics; Associate Director, Kovler Diabetes Center/Kovler for Kids

2014-2015 Leadership Board

ChairpersonSally Kovler

Khalid Alagel

Lisa Allegra

Graeme Bell, PhD

Dirk Degenaars

Jay Franke

Laurie Jaffe

David Miniat

Regina Taylor

Eve Tyree

Bruce Young


Adult Endocrine Faculty

George Bakris, MD, ProfessorMatthew Brady, PhD, Associate ProfessorAlexandra Dumitrescu, MD, Assistant ProfessorDavid Ehrmann, MD, ProfessorMurray Favus, MD, ProfessorColleen Majewski, PhD, Assistant ProfessorRochelle Naylor, MD, Assistant ProfessorSilvana Pannain, MD, Assistant ProfessorLouis Philipson, MD, PhD, FACP, ProfessorKenneth Polonsky, MD, ProfessorSamuel Refetoff, MD, ProfessorChristopher Rhodes, PhD, ProfessorRobert Rosenfield, MD, ProfessorSusan Sam, MD, Assistant ProfessorRobert Sargis, MD, PhD, Assistant ProfessorDavid Sarne, MD, Clinical AssociateCeleste Thomas, MD, Assistant ProfessorEve Van Cauter, PhD, ProfessorTamara Vokes, MD, ProfessorChristine Yu, MD, Assistant ProfessorMeltem Zeytinoglu, MD, Assistant ProfessorAnn Zmuda, DPM, Associate Professor

Pediatric Endocrine Faculty

Dianne Deplewski, MD, Associate ProfessorSiri Greeley, MD, PhD, Assistant ProfessorDorit Koren, MD, Assistant ProfessorElizabeth Littlejohn, MD, Associate ProfessorLouis Philipson, MD, PhD, FACP, ProfessorChristine Yu, MD, Assistant Professor

Research AssociatesAli Cinar, PhD, ProfessorErin Hanlon, PhD, Assistant ProfessorManami Hara, PhD, Associate ProfessorDecheng Ren, PhD, Assistant ProfessorNatalia Tamarina, PhD, Associate ProfessorHongwei Wang, PhD, Assistant Professor

Adult Endocrine FellowsAnila Bindal, MDRajesh Jain, MDMizuho Mimoto, MDDisha Narang, MD

Pediatric Endocrine Fellows

Magdalena Dumin, MDMichelle Lemelman, MDPayal Patel, MDSusan Tucker, MD

Medicine and Pediatric Endocrine Fellow

Katie O'Sullivan, MD

Administrative and Clinical Leadership

Lynda HaleAnn LeuLori ReynoldsCheryl Scott

Inpatient and Outpatient Diabetes Education Team

Regina Cox-Brown, RN, BSN, CLCAlyssa Dougherty, RDAmy Hess Fischl, MS, RD, LDN, BC-ADM, CDE Nancy Jerger, RN, RD, CDEJennifer Johnson, BSN, RN, CCRN, CPNMonica Rojas, RD, CDE

Clinical Research Team

Gail Gannon, RN, FNPElizabeth GreerTom O'Malley

Monogenic Diabetes Research Team

Flavius BecaMonica LanningLisa Letourneau, MPH, RDKatie LindauerJazzmyne MontgomerySoo-young Park, PhDMay Sanyoura, PhDHong Ye, PhD

Endocrine/Kovler Clinic Staff

Kristen AllenMegan Bracamontes, LPNMaureen CostelloCathy Eubanks, RNSophie GadomskiFelicia Hernandez, MAValeria JonesDonna MartinPita Moraga, RNDeShawndra Robinson, MAMichele Stewart, LPNMonica White

Endocrinology Research and Administrative Support

Barbara BriskyKathy HendrixMargie Matulik, RN, BSN, CDEKiyona MuhammedGladys PazAbby RueErin SkorskiKarla Temple, PhDCyndi WoodsRebecca Yardley

University of Chicago Senior Leadership

Kenneth S. Polonsky, MDDean and Executive Vice President forMedical Affairs, University of Chicago

Sharon O’KeefePresident, University of ChicagoMedical Center

Everett T. Vokes, MDJohn E. Ultmann Professor of Medicine Chair, Department of Medicine Physician in Chief, University of Chicago Medical Center

IMPACT REPORT CREDITS:

Managing Editor:Terri Tye

Writer: Margo Weitzman

Contributors: Tessa BurtonDavid EhrmannPeggy HasenauerCarla HenaultLaurie JaffeRachel LiebermanLou PhilipsonThelma Philipson PlesserPaula Wheeler

Design: Design360° IncorporatedScott & Jane Evans

Primary Photography:Russell Ingram Photography

Caring for individuals with diabetes throughout their lifespan—from infants to adults—is our mission at the University of Chicago Medicine Kovler Diabetes Center.

kovlerdiabetescenter.org773.702.2371

Founder ($100,000 AND ABOVE)Friends UnitedMindy and Jonathan GrayJames Tyree FoundationErnest D Semersky

Innovator ($50,000 - $99,999)Jay Franke and David HerroMike and Laurie Jaffe

Benefactor ($25,000 - $49,999)Akoya Capital Partners**Doug and Mary Jo BaslerGraeme Bell, PhDKevin and Kara BoyleSally and Jonathan KovlerNazr MohammedSouthern Wine and Spirits of Illinois**The Robert and Jamie Taylor FoundationMargie Teller*

Patron ($10,000 - $24,999)Adams PlasticsRobert and Lisa Allegra*Ken Alpart**Graeme I Bell, PhDButterfield and Robinson**Jeffrey CardotThe Clearing CorporationDouglas Lee HarmonHull Family FoundationDavid Kaye and Judith Teller-KayeMichael Coleman LLC**David and Lisa Miniat*Summit Executive Center*Michael SweigBruce and Beverly Young

Explorer ($5,000 - $9,999)Celebrity Cruises**Chipotle Mexican Grill

Chuhak & Tecson P.C.CME Group, Inc.Dirk and Caroline DegenaarsDRW Holdings**Grace and Doug FoxKaren Haycox**William and Elisabeth LandesGeorge and Cynthia LymanPackard Research FoundationResorts West**Robert and Nancy RoteringMargaret SchnellThe Nugent Event Network**Stern Pinball, Inc**Kenneth and Lydia PolonskyEve TyreeMary Alice Wheeler

Sponsor ($2,500 - $4,999)Michael and Sarah AlterJeremie BaconBill Nygren FoundationGator Trading Partners LLCMichelle and Michael EpiscopeEverybody Loves NickPeter and Paula FasseasFortune Fish CompanyDavid and Linda GillThe Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.George Gomez**Stuart and Deborah GordonAntonio and Sabrina GraciasThomas and Peggy HasenauerHoltzmann’s **Ellen Itskovitz*Waltraud Legat*Felicia and Ronald LevinJames LustmanMesirow FinancialCharles and Joan MooreNuance SolutionsLouis and Lynn Philipson

David RubinLee and Marlene RubinsteinMara SandlerSmall Luxury Hotels**Stella Artois**Regina TaylorThomas Masters Gallery**Steven and Patricia Winegar

Supporter ($1,000 - $2,499)Haleyur and Veena ArunJarrett Banwart and Sheila McShaneDale BeardenTerry and Amy Becker**Elizabeth BilodeauVictoria BoucherPat BradfieldHilary BruceDaniel BurkwaldJulie CameronChicago Cut**Compliance Program Management, LLCBryan and Catherine DanielsAndrew DavisJustin Dedeaux**Erie-LaSalle Body Shop**Extreme Marketing LLCErin FauberTammy FischerHelen FlanaganWilliam Forsyth III and Martha Goldrich-ForsythFour Seasons Hotel Chicago**GLAS FundsBrian Golinvaux and Travis Larson*Robert GottfredRandy Hack**Susan HagbergDavid and Joan HoeseThe Inn at Palmetto Bluff**Billy Joel**Maria KellyJames KennedyErik KestelootMargot Levin Family FundMark Ladner**Lakeshore Securities, LLCSteven Laporta

UPDATED

We are pleased to acknowledge our friends and supporters and we thank them for their contributions to our mission in the last fiscal year.fiscal year: July 2014-June 2015

Lewis and Susan ManilowRocco and Roxanne MartinoCorey McQuadeMillennium Properties R/E Inc.Chris Morrow**Mor Weath Management OperatingNeiman Marcus**Cathy Bruni Norris**J Duff O’DonnellPinnacle Pain ManagementPrada USA**Matthew RamerKaren and James Reid IIReynoso Vineyards**Joseph Rickard*Margaret RodkinMargo and Harold RussellMichael SacksSaks Fifth Avenue**Shira SavilleFred Schuster*Serenity Springs**Barbara and Neal ShactShaw Hospitality GroupNancy SilbermanSisley**Kenneth A Steel JrDavid SteinKeith SteinIliana SweisTakohl Gallery of Jewels**Laura TellerGeorge Tenet and Stephanie Glakas-TenetSally and Scott TylerJared Van Camp**Wells Fargo Advisors, LLCJames WhiteStephen WhiteMorton Zwick

Friend (UNDER $1,000)Janet BerkeleyMelanie BicheSandra BonesPhilip and Susan BrilliantTrisha BrueningAndrew BurchillGregory Cameron and

Greg ThompsonKatherine CraneDoris DahlToni DeonierTeri DrymalskiEarl and Linda FaberDavid Fox and Chris StoneDenise FriedmanSusan GoodellGeorge GoodmanJoshua HaleRay and Susan HaleGarry HaliburtonDaniel HartmanCorinne HerroPaul HerroElizabeth InsleyDavid and Joan KarlinLisa KennemerLisa KeyJohn KloeckerJeffrey KolbGale LandersRobert and Diane LevyMatt McAreaveySandra MontgomeryFaris NijimClaudia NilesWayne NilesOrland PaulsenMary Jo QuackenbossRichard and Margaret RomanoHarry RosenbergJeffrey RubensteinLisa Walker and Bill RudnickFern SchlessDeborah Smith and George GlassmeyerRosemary SoleckiRichard and Cindy StrupTrent VanbockernMarian WetterlingGregory WhiteJohn Palmer WhiteRobert YaminsMichael and Francesca Zucker

* in kind support

kovler 2015 impact report with addendum

Documents