Age: 16
Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Like many kids living with T1D, Annika is hopeful for a cure. Just for today, though, she would be content with new advances in managing the disease. “My dream for the future is for a cure of course, but if nothing else, for there to be even more technologically advanced tools to make our lives easier, reduce the chance of errors in calculating carbs, and eliminate the possibility for low and high blood sugar altogether.” Diagnosed at age 7, Annika remembers life before T1D. But she doesn’t spend much time daydreaming about the past; she’s too busy performing. A National Honor Society member and aspiring singer, Annika sings with her school’s choir and jazz choir as well as at open mic nights. She also loves reading, drawing and spending time with her family.