Meet Our Board
Laura Pavlakovich
President | Founder & Executive Director
Laura Pavlakovich founded You’re Just My Type after recognizing the profound impact that connection can have on life with type 1 diabetes. Diagnosed at age five, she created the organization to ensure no one has to navigate the emotional side of this disease alone.
What began as a storytelling project has grown into a nonprofit that hosts free events across the U.S. and Canada, shares personal stories from the diabetes community, and builds spaces where people feel seen, understood, and supported. Laura continues to lead the organization’s vision, partnerships, and national expansion.
Board Member,
Therapist living with T1D
Erika Forsyth, LMFT
Erika Forsyth is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA and owner of Erika Forsyth Family Therapy. Living with type 1 diabetes since 1990, she specializes in supporting children, adolescents, adults, and caregivers navigating the emotional and behavioral challenges of diabetes, combining lived experience with clinical expertise.
Erika is a national speaker at conferences including TBT1 and CWD Friends for Life and a frequent contributor to the Juicebox Podcast's Mental Health Series, TCOYD, Type 1 in Midlife, and Grownup T1Ds. She serves on the American Diabetes Association's Mental Health Advisory Group and Safe at School Working Group, as well as the Touched by Type 1 Medical Oversight Committee.
Erika is proud to serve on the Founding Board of You're Just My Type, helping advance its mission of connection and community for people living with type 1 diabetes.
Dr. David Ahn
Board Member,
Chief of Diabetes Services & Endocrinologist
Dr. David Ahn is Chief of Diabetes Services and the Dr. Kris V. Iyer Endowed Chair in Diabetes Care at the Mary & Dick Allen Diabetes Center at Hoag in Newport Beach, California. As an endocrinologist, educator, and advocate, he is dedicated to helping people with diabetes live healthier, fuller lives through education, technology, and community.
A recognized leader in diabetes care, Dr. Ahn integrates clinical practice, research, and public outreach to improve diabetes outcomes and awareness. He also shares practical diabetes education through his social media platforms, reaching thousands of people with diabetes and their caregivers.
Dr. Ahn is proud to support You're Just My Type and its mission to connect and empower the diabetes community.
Board Advisor,
Attorney
Sheldon R. Henry, Esq.
Sheldon R. Henry is an attorney and strategic advisor with extensive experience guiding nonprofit organizations, businesses, and community initiatives. He brings expertise in governance, organizational strategy, and long-term growth, helping mission-driven organizations build strong foundations for lasting impact.
As a Board Advisor, Sheldon supports You’re Just My Type’s continued expansion by providing strategic guidance as the organization grows its reach and deepens its impact within the type 1 diabetes community.