THE CAROUSEL BALL 2021

On Saturday, October 2, 2021, the Children’s Diabetes Foundation hosted the 35th annual Carousel Ball at the Hyatt Regency Denver bringing together 850 guests for a special night to celebrate and honor those in our diabetes community. The highly anticipated event was presented by Dexcom and featured an incredible evening that included a silent & live auction, dinner, cocktails, and exciting entertainment by REO Speedwagon.

At the start of the event, CDF treated guests to cocktails and hors d'oeuvres while strolling through an incredible display of silent auction items including a tour of Jay Leno’s Garage, two Diamondback Union 2 EBikes, and a 4-night stay at Four Seasons Resort Maui. Those mingling also heard beats by DJ Cyn, watched artist Duke Beardsley paint live, and captured pictures on the red carpet. Advocates wearing sashes greeted attendees to share their experiences with type 1 diabetes. Following the cocktail hour, attendees made their way downstairs to the Centennial Ballroom for dinner and the start of the program.

Children’s Diabetes Foundation’s Executive Director Dana Davis kicked off the show with a warm welcome. “Looking out at all of you is the most amazing sight! This is what family and community looks like,” Dana said. “Showing love and support for those you care about no matter the circumstances, it’s remarkable”. Dana went on to thank everyone for continuing to support CDF during uncertain times. “Diabetes never takes a break, and neither can we, but together we can support those who need it, raise awareness and as my mom would say reach for the brass ring… a cure.”

The program continued with Ellie Hampton coming to the stage to give the prayer for the evening's dinner. Ellie has type 1 diabetes and is a patient of the Barbara Davis Center. She shared with the audience that when she was 6 years old, she was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. “This disease has changed my life, but it hasn’t changed who I am and what I want to become. Each day brings new challenges that I work hard to overcome, but having support from the Barbara Davis Center, CDF, and generous donors has helped make those challenges easier.”

During the show, CDF proudly presented Dr. Dan Feiten and Julie Feiten with this year’s Founders Award in recognition of the instrumental role they played in advancing pediatric diabetes care for more than three decades. Dr. and Mrs. Feiten were introduced to the stage by their four children Emily, Ben, Gabe and Jonny, who presented them with their award.

Following the Feiten’s acceptance, Fundaneer Halie Behr took to the stage to kick off the evening’s live auction with packages including an extravagant getaway to Los Angeles, a ticket and travel package to Kansas City for a Chiefs/Broncos game, and a pair of diamond and pearl earrings from Trice Jewelers. CDF Advocates with type 1 diabetes joined Halie on stage during the live appeal to call out donation numbers and thank the patrons who pledged funds to CDF and the Barbara Davis Center during the event.

CDF also presented Steve and Shelley Lucas with the High Hopes Tribute Award in honor of their 10 years of service and support of the Foundation. Lucas’ were presented with their award by their two children, Lynnie and Kenny.

The evening ended with an incredible performance by REO Speedwagon. They rocked the stage and had attendees signing along to fan-favorites “Time for Me to Fly,” "Keep On Loving You,” “Take It On the Run,” and “Can’t Fight This Feeling”.

The 2021 Carousel Ball was made possible by Presenting Sponsor, Dexcom. Also, with the generosity from supporting sponsors: The Corley Legacy Foundation; Empower Retirement; The Lucas Family; Toby Pippin & Dr. Marty Tingelhoff; RBC Wealth Management; Iris & Michael Smith; Dependable Cleaners; and the

Money raised from the Carousel Ball is an important part of the funding support the Children’s Diabetes Foundation provides to the Barbara Davis Center. The event also raises much needed awareness for people living with type 1 diabetes.

The 2022 Carousel of Hope Ball will take place in Beverly Hills, CA on October 8th. Follow us on social media or visit our website for up-to-date information on the 2022 Carousel of Hope Ball.