Age: 14
Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

If you live in Wyoming and don’t know much about T1D, Holden is your go-to guy. He makes sure to set aside time in his busy schedule of maintaining straight A’s at school and participating in soccer, football and basketball to educate people about T1D. Holden speaks to students and teachers at his school as well as the local Rotary Club and as a member of the Willwood 4-H Club, and has shared educational posters and presentations on T1D for the last four years at both the state and local fairs. Holden has found it hard at times to live with T1D, but he says, “I do not let diabetes define me, rather, I let it motivate me, I don’t feel limited by my diabetes. I think it has shaped me into the person I am today, and I have learned not to give up.” Holden is excited to bring his passion for T1D awareness and positive attitude to JDRF 2019 Children’s Congress.

“Powell teenager selected to attend Children’s Congress in Washington, DC,” Buckrail.com, May 30, 2019

“Powell teen to advocate for diabetes research in D.C.,” Powell Tribune, June 13, 2019