Delegates Search Result

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Brodie is an award-winning basketball player whose dream is to play for the NBA. Upon his diagnosis with T1D, all Brodie could think was... Read More

Damian

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Damian loves sports, particularly baseball and soccer, and he doesn’t shy away from stepping up into some of the tougher roles on his teams.... Read More

Darcy

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

In addition to being an honors student, Darcy enjoys art, crochet, roller skating, and plays tennis for her high school. She has even found... Read More

Emma

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

When Emma was young, she wanted to be a superhero so she could help people in need. Her career plans have changed a bit.... Read More

Frankie

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Frankie is one busy girl! She is on a local swim team, plays piano, is an avid snow skier, participates in gymnastics, and is... Read More

Kathryn

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Kathryn recently earned her scuba diving certification, something people with T1D couldn’t do until recently. She loves sports and the outdoors, with some of... Read More

Lucca

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Lucca likes to stay active with fencing, playing dodgeball, and going to the park with his friends. He’s become a pro at overcoming challenges—not... Read More

Marisa

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

If you ask Marisa what she wants to do when she’s older, her answer is simple: she wants to make a difference in people’s... Read More

Natalia

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Natalia became a JDRF Youth Ambassador pretty soon after being diagnosed with T1D, and she credits that with helping her to adjust to life... Read More

Nina

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Sports and competition have always been a big part of Nina’s life, but she has always made time for other things she’s passionate about.... Read More

Paige

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

If there is one word to describe Paige, it’s definitely the word “resilient.” Paige was diagnosed with T1D when she was in the first... Read More

Paris

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

If you ask Paris what type of animal is her favorite, she’d probably quickly answer with “koalas.” When Paris was diagnosed with T1D, her... Read More

Tennyson

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Tennyson likes creating online trivia quizzes and collecting junior ranger badges from all the U.S. National Parks. He’s a speed LEGO builder and has... Read More

Zosia

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Zosia has a passion for writing, especially poetry. She also loves to play violin and listen to live music. Aside from an appreciation for... Read More

Ella

Colorado, 2023

Age: 5 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Ella is very excited to start kindergarten this year. Swimming is one of her favorite activities, but she also loves coloring, dance, gymnastics, and... Read More

Gavin

Colorado, 2023

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

If you’re ever wondering where you can find Gavin, the first place you are likely to find him is somewhere people need help. Whether... Read More

Sabrina

Colorado, 2023

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Being from Colorado, Sabrina enjoys staying active! She plays lacrosse and loves to ski in the winter and mountain bike in the summer. One... Read More

Annabelle

Connecticut, 2023

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Annabelle’s biggest dream is to one day be able to say, “I used to have diabetes.” When she is not working hard in school... Read More

Ava

Connecticut, 2023

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Ava loves drawing, collecting records and listening to music, as well as collecting skincare and stationery. At school, Ava participates in dance club, as... Read More

Casey

Delaware, 2023

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 15

Casey’s favorite subject in school is chemistry. In the future, she envisions herself as a veterinarian or in a STEM-oriented career. Her love of... Read More

Becca

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

When Becca was diagnosed with T1D at age 7, an experienced T1D family visited them in the hospital to give them guidance and support.... Read More

Camila

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

When Camila has free time, you can usually find her in the kitchen cooking different recipes from around the world, or riding horses and... Read More

Jack

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Jack is inspired by all of the breakthrough T1D research, advances in technology, and teams of people working to improve lives of people with... Read More

Leah

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Leah is smart, spunky, and brave. She’s looking forward to putting those traits to work as a Delegate. “I’m not afraid to use my... Read More

Luke

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Luke is a competitive soccer player who has two tournament championships under his belt so far! He is also a member of his school’s... Read More

Nathaniel

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Nathaniel is an accomplished saxophonist (who also plays trombone) who started playing sax just over a year ago, and is now one of the... Read More

Oliver

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Oliver has been highly involved with JDRF since his diagnosis 3 years ago, from volunteering at Galas to participating in One Walks to being... Read More

Rohan

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

At the start of each school year, Rohan teaches his classmates about what it’s like to live with T1D. It’s good practice for what... Read More

Savannah

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

As one of four people in her family living with T1D, Savannah is very familiar with how T1D technology makes managing the disease easier.... Read More

Amanda

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

When Amanda was diagnosed with T1D, what she needed the most was to see other people living with T1D who weren’t just surviving, but... Read More

Bauer

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Bauer is very interested in technology—he recently built his own computer! He’s been in a few clinical trials related to T1D technology and knows... Read More

Evan

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

There are a lot of impressive things about Evan, but his kindness might be the most impressive of them all. “I like to make... Read More

Kobi

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Kobi is an active 7th grader who plays football and saxophone, but of all his accomplishments, forming his support organization “Kobi’s Konnection” to help... Read More

Savannah

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Savannah is very enthusiastic about causes that are important to her. Since her T1D diagnosis, she and her family have been actively involved in... Read More

Drass

Hawaii, 2023

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Drass might have the widest range of interests of any 3rd grader around! He loves to play soccer, collect and trade Pokemon cards, play... Read More

Nico

Hawaii, 2023

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Nico loves to be active, and you can usually find him playing either club soccer or with his school’s team, hiking, fishing, or surfing.... Read More

Charlotte

Idaho, 2023

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Charlotte is very artistic—she likes singing, dancing, and listening to boy bands, but she especially likes abstract painting. She enjoys raising awareness about T1D,... Read More

Edgar

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Edgar has two parents, two sisters, and two dogs, and describes them as a team when it comes to supporting Edgar managing life with... Read More

Izzy

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Izzy has always had one goal: to not let T1D stand in her way or prevent her from accomplishing anything, and she achieves that... Read More

Josie

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

When Josie’s former state senator asked her to talk about living with T1D at a press conference, she jumped at the chance. “I was... Read More

Teagan

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Teagan is extremely passionate about water polo and has played in the National Tournament in California and competed at the Junior Olympics. Teagan is... Read More

Sophia

Indiana, 2023

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Sophia is one busy 6th grader! She’s in high ability classes, a member of the swim team, and plays tennis as well. She’s incredibly... Read More

Lucy

Iowa, 2023

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Lucy has participated in several research studies since she was diagnosed with T1D at age 6. “I participate in any study I qualify for... Read More

Reese

Iowa, 2023

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Reese is very excited that she made the swim team this year, and is grateful for her continuous glucose monitor that allows her mom... Read More

Blythe

Kansas, 2023

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Blythe loves writing poems and stories—one of her poems was even published in a national student poetry collection! She also likes playing video games... Read More

Harper

Kentucky, 2023

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Harper is a straight-A student and takes school very seriously because her goal is to become a pediatric endocrinologist. She wants to provide empathy... Read More

Lily

Kentucky, 2023

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Lily fondly remembers getting a Rufus bear in the hospital after her T1D diagnosis—she still sleeps with it to this day! From that moment,... Read More

Bryce

Louisiana, 2023

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

After Bryce was diagnosed with T1D, he realized pretty quickly how important using his voice is. “T1D advocacy is really important to me. Advocacy... Read More

Henry

Louisiana, 2023

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Henry is a perfect mix of athleticism and academics. Just last year he made it to the Academic Games National Tournament and scored the... Read More

Maria

Maine, 2023

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Even though Maria is only 10, she already has a plan for high school: she will shadow her doctor to learn how to help... Read More

Annika

Maryland, 2023

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Annika can almost always be found outdoors, whether it’s biking, hiking, running, skiing, or playing tennis. Recently, Annika was certified to SCUBA dive and... Read More

Anya

Maryland, 2023

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

When Anya was 10 years old, one of her close friends from diabetes camp passed away due to complications from severe low blood sugar.... Read More

Anna

Massachusetts, 2023

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Anna is rightfully very proud that she is able to talk to anyone, even strangers about what life with T1D is like. She speaks... Read More

Emmie

Massachusetts, 2023

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Emmie calls her insulin pump and her continuous glucose monitor her “robots.” She recently shared her story about having T1D with her Girl Scouts... Read More

Kate

Massachusetts, 2023

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Kate is passionate about improving the lives of those with T1D. She has volunteered to participate in clinical trials studying new T1D technology and... Read More

Jayda

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Jayda is very involved at her school – she was voted class president by her fellow classmates, and she is a member of the... Read More

Jolie

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

When Jolie left the hospital after her T1D diagnosis, she went right to dance class. On top of being a competitive dancer, she’s a... Read More

Malcolm Jr.

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

If you ask Malcolm Jr. one word he would use to describe himself, he is quick to let you know that he is a... Read More

Trace

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Trace is not only passionate about sports, he’s also an incredibly talented athlete! He plays basketball, football, and baseball, and recently made a travel... Read More

Ben

Minnesota, 2023

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9 months

Ben has a built-in T1D support system: his brother, who also has T1D. They play soccer, hockey, and golf together, and can... Read More

Isabella

Minnesota, 2023

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Isabella has had some firsthand experience when it comes to legislation that would positively impact the T1D community. As a member of Youth in... Read More

Thor

Minnesota, 2023

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Thor loves building with Legos, so much so that instead of using a poster to do his yearly presentation at school to spread awareness... Read More

JuJu

Mississippi, 2023

Age: 4 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

JuJu is known as the hero amongst his family, and it’s easy to see why! Juju was diagnosed with T1D when he was only... Read More

Eve LeeAnn

Missouri, 2023

Age: 5 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Eve LeeAnn is a very outgoing five year old and loves to entertain—singing, dancing, and wearing costumes. With the help of her mom, Eve... Read More

Kate

Missouri, 2023

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

One week after her T1D diagnosis, Kate raised more than $14,000 for JDRF. Since then, she has served as a JDRF Youth Ambassador and... Read More

Madi

Missouri, 2023

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Madi and her mom created a support group in their community for families of children with T1D. They’ve also done presentations at Madi’s school... Read More

Madisyn

Montana, 2023

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

If anyone ever has a question for Madisyn about T1D, she doesn’t hesitate to answer. Her outgoing personality doesn’t stop at spreading T1D awareness;... Read More

Aiden

Nebraska, 2023

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Aiden has taken every opportunity to educate his classmates, family, and friends about T1D and the daily struggles he faces. He’s especially proud of... Read More

Alex

Nebraska, 2023

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Alex wants to be a pharmacist when he grows up because he loves helping people. His part-time job as a clerk at his local... Read More

Brooklyn

Nebraska, 2023

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Brooklyn enjoys playing tennis and volleyball, spending time with her friends and family, shopping, riding her bike, baking, and volunteering. Brooklyn is incredibly proud... Read More

Joy

Nevada, 2023

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Joy describes herself as “a very busy person” and she definitely is! She participates in piano club, winter color guard, Girl Scouts, student council,... Read More

Leah

Nevada, 2023

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 14

Leah was diagnosed with T1D in April of 2022, which she describes as the biggest challenge of her life. Leah hit the ground running... Read More

Amanda

New Hampshire, 2023

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Amanda has received straight A’s her entire school career, which would be an impressive accomplishment all on its own, but Amanda’s dedication and work... Read More

Elise

New Hampshire, 2023

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Elise doesn’t remember life without T1D, but she tries to think of it as more of an obstacle than a roadblock. Elise is passionate... Read More

Avery

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Avery has been a dancer for over 14 years and competitively for the past 5 years. She’s a member of her school’s varsity dance... Read More

Bela

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Bela is on the competitive rowing team at her high school and her rowing academy—she feels those experiences have helped her gain important leadership... Read More

Ella

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

When Ella is not pushing herself with academics, she can be found on a field hockey or lacrosse field or at the beach serving... Read More

Lindsay

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Lindsay remembers how isolated she felt after she was diagnosed with T1D, but that all changed when she and her family attended their first... Read More

Russell

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Ask Russell what two of his most proud accomplishments are and he will be quick to tell you that they are achieving his Tenderfoot... Read More

Lila

New Mexico, 2023

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Lila and her family live over 200 miles from their closest JDRF chapter, but they work to spread awareness about Type 1 Diabetes. As... Read More

Ari

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Ari is very passionate about sports and is on a competitive travel baseball team. “I’m proud of being able to perform as an elite... Read More

Ariel

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

It doesn’t matter if it’s managing life with T1D or spending 9 months working hard to recover from a ruptured ACL to return to... Read More

Isabella

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Isabella started raising awareness for type 1 diabetes in the third grade, making posters for her class about the differences between hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.... Read More

Jackie

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Jackie loves exploring, whether it be destinations around the world or who she is as a person, she is always in the mood for... Read More

Jayme

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

When Jayme was 13, she and her mom participated in a JDRF Ride and the support she experienced was inspiring. “For the first time... Read More

JT

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

In the two years since he was diagnosed with T1D, JT has learned a lot about taking care of himself. This is especially true... Read More

Max

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Max is a guy with a goal: to do whatever he can to further T1D research and contribute to the progress being made towards... Read More

Nicholas

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Nicholas really likes to help with yard work, so much so that he is currently participating in the 50 Yard Challenge, mowing 50 yards... Read More

Orli

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Orli wants to make the world a better place, using passion as her guiding value, and she’s well on her way to doing just... Read More

Christina

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Christina can usually be found spreading awareness around T1D. Whether she’s speaking about T1D in her speech and debate or English classes, posting on... Read More

Davis

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Davis loves sports and is a starting lacrosse player, and captain of the soccer team at his school. He’s a member of the National... Read More

Hannah

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Hannah has been a dancer for over 14 years — she is trained in ballet, modern, jazz, and tap. She is also a member... Read More

Jad

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Jad describes himself as an extrovert, he loves having conversations with a variety of people and learning more about different ideas in general. He’s... Read More

Madilyn

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

When Madilyn was diagnosed with T1D, she dove right into getting involved with things like JDRF One Walk, JDRF Ride, and has served as... Read More

Brandon

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Brandon is proud of how well he manages his schedule — he plays club soccer year round, is on his school’s basketball team, and... Read More

Cora

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Cora loves arts and crafting, especially drawing and making Barbie clothes, and she recently started to teach herself how to crochet. She is a... Read More

Ethan

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Ethan is a high school sophomore who will never pass up the opportunity to talk about T1D. “I have always taken the opportunity to... Read More

Ian

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Ian has not let T1D get in his way! He maintains all A’s in school, plays tennis, piano, and loves performing in musicals (he... Read More

Jordan

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Jordan describes himself as “family-oriented” and says that his journey with T1D has been a family effort. Jordan knows that not everyone living with... Read More

Luke

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 14

Luke wasn’t planning on attending JDRF 2023 Children’s Congress, but his brother, who has been living with T1D for eight years, was. That all... Read More

Bay

Oklahoma, 2023

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Bay loves school, so much so that she’s already thinking about colleges even though she’s only in 6th grade (Brown is her first choice... Read More

Tyler

Oklahoma, 2023

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Tyler is thrilled to represent the Cherokee Nation at this year’s JDRF Children’s Congress. He enjoys learning about his Native American heritage, especially about... Read More

Andrew

Oregon, 2023

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Andrew dreams of a world where people are more educated about T1D, and he works hard in his community to help that happen! In... Read More

Owen

Oregon, 2023

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Owen enjoys volunteering for JDRF, from serving as a Youth Ambassador, community events like One Walk, and delivering Bags of Hope to newly diagnosed... Read More

Zoe

Oregon, 2023

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

When Zoe’s twin brother was diagnosed with T1D in 2015, she, her parents and other sibling were screened for diabetes autoantibodies. Her older sibling... Read More

Anderson

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Anderson has a lot of things that take up his time! He is on both the soccer and tennis teams at school, a member... Read More

Caroline

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Caroline is a very active 7-year-old both in and out of school! Caroline loves soccer, softball, dance, and children’s programs at church. Caroline’s proudest... Read More

Emily

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Emily loves helping people, whether it be through serving as a student ambassador or being a helper at the school library. Every year for... Read More

Ethan

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Ethan loves the outdoors—hiking, camping, hunting, and skiing—and has been to 11 National Parks. “I’ve had to treat low blood sugars four hundred feet... Read More

Hannah

Rhode Island, 2023

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Hannah has a passion for community service. She’s in her school’s Kindness Club, has won an award for her dedication to her local soup... Read More

Cooper

South Carolina, 2023

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Cooper likes playing video games and hanging out with his friends—he has sleepovers with them almost every weekend. He plays percussion in his middle... Read More

Eliza

South Carolina, 2023

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 14

Eliza fell in love with running the summer before 7th grade, and has been running varsity track and cross country ever since! She was... Read More

Khadidja

South Dakota, 2023

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Khadidja loves to read,play the saxophone, and learn new things. When asked what she sees herself doing as an adult, Khadidja says she sees... Read More

Sierra

South Dakota, 2023

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Sierra loves sports and exercise and keeps herself active on a traveling softball team and the track team (the long jump is her favorite).... Read More

Jack

Tennessee, 2023

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Jack is very active and can usually be found in the water! Whether he’s in the pool participating in competitive swimming year-round or out... Read More

Naman

Tennessee, 2023

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Naman is a JDRF Youth Ambassador and Youth Advocacy Leader who is passionate about healthcare affordability. “It is extremely important to me that those... Read More

Reagan

Tennessee, 2023

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Reagan holds several pageant titles (including her current title of America’s Ideal Miss Historic Tennessee), but one of the titles Reagan is most proud... Read More

Addison

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Addison is passionate about everything she does, whether that’s playing volleyball, tennis, golfing, cheerleading, or getting the leading role in school plays. An accomplishment... Read More

Alex

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Upon her diagnosis with T1D, Alex was told artificial pancreas technology would not be available until she was in college. She started using one... Read More

Bethany

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Bethany has a personal goal: to spread awareness and help other people with T1D better manage their disease. “I have turned this seemingly everlasting... Read More

Brock

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Brock has handled his T1D diagnosis really well. “I don’t cry with injections, finger sticks, CGM or pump site changes, and I tell people... Read More

Layla

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

You’d probably have a hard time finding another teenager who understands herself as well as Layla does. Her burning desire to express her personal... Read More

Nadia

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Nadia loves to be active. She has been playing soccer—her favorite sport—since she was 4 years old. She also runs track and won third... Read More

Peyton

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Peyton has traveled to 13 countries, and she hopes to increase that number by a lot. She even traveled to Nicaragua just three weeks... Read More

Peyton

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Peyton is a busy 12 year old and likes trying new things! He has a red belt in martial arts, is a trumpet player... Read More

Pranav

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Pranav loves using technology and software to solve real-world problems and envisions himself using his passion to help solve problems that are related to... Read More

Ryan

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

After Ryan attended her first JDRF One Walk, she says she felt driven to spread awareness about T1D and do everything she possibly could... Read More

Sofia

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

It would be tough to find something that Sofia hasn’t done to raise awareness around T1D. She’s participated in JDRF One Walk events, Galas,... Read More

Sydnie

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Sydnie loves all things science and math—she hopes to one day attend UCLA and become a chemical scientist. She really enjoys singing, playing piano... Read More

Zara

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Zara has big aspirations! She is passionate about speech and debate, and wants to become a lawyer, then eventually run for congressional office. Zara... Read More

Laila

Utah, 2023

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

When Laila was in 5th grade, she did a project on Mae Jemison, the first African American woman in space. It sparked her love... Read More

Liviana

Utah, 2023

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Liviana describes herself as a strong feminist who will always fight for what she believes in, and she’s looking forward to bringing that energy... Read More

Thomas

Utah, 2023

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Thomas describes himself as a social person, and enjoys spending time with his friends and playing basketball with his brothers when he isn’t busy... Read More

Aurora

Vermont, 2023

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Aurora has a lot of big plans for her life, and she doesn’t intend to let T1D stand in her way. She loves all... Read More

Emory

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Emory and two of his siblings have T1D, so he understands how much work and support (and money) it takes to manage it.... Read More

Jack

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

If you ask Jack what he loves to do, he’s likely to answer “sleep!” which isn’t a surprise considering how much he has going... Read More

Jane

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Jane believes supporting T1D research and raising awareness is very important. She enjoys participating in all of the JDRF events, and especially loved when... Read More

Karson

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Karson is a “take charge” kind of guy, he leads his own JDRF One Walk team, founded “Go Blue Day” at his elementary school... Read More

Maddie

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Maddie doesn’t remember what her life before being diagnosed with T1D was like, but she does remember her dad (who also lives with T1D,... Read More

Riley

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Riley is passionate about the importance of T1D research advancements and the development of new technology to make managing T1D easier, and she’s played... Read More

Eli

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Eli loves science and social studies. He likes to spend his free time outdoors, playing golf, hiking, and camping. Eli is a patrol leader... Read More

Grace

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

You can’t stop Grace from spreading awareness about T1D! She has not one, but two social media accounts that she uses to educate people... Read More

Natalie

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Children’s Congress is a huge part of Natalie’s family story—her mom was a Delegate at the very first Children’s Congress in 1999! “I think... Read More

Safa

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

If there’s one word that describes Safa, it is definitely the word active! She plays competitive soccer and has her red striped belt in... Read More

Wes

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Wes is an avid athlete and does not let his type 1 diabetes define him. “Being a person with T1D should not prevent me,... Read More

Chris

West Virginia, 2023

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Chris loves mythology and ancient history. He also enjoys creative writing, science, and politics. He’s especially proud of being an honor roll student and... Read More

Meredith

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Meredith is proud to use her voice to raise awareness about T1D. For many years, she has participated in JDRF One Walk, volunteered at... Read More

Mira

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

It’s hard to know how Mira finds the time to do everything she does! She is active in clubs at school including Key Club,... Read More

Silvia

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

If you ask Silvia what they look forward to, they’ll be quick to answer “changing the world” and at age 9, they’re well on... Read More

Talon

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Shortly after his T1D diagnosis, Talon got a diabetic alert dog named Hero and was interviewed on local news channels about life with T1D... Read More

Gannon

Wyoming, 2023

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Gannon has a lot to be proud of! He plays golf for his school and baseball for his city (he was selected for the... Read More

Ethan

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Ethan spends a lot of time promoting awareness about living with T1D in his home country of Australia. He holds fundraisers and makes presentations... Read More

Eva

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Eva, like most people living with T1D is grateful for the advancements that have been made with devices like insulin pumps and continuous glucose... Read More

Martha

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Martha enjoys karate, Kobudo, listening to music, fitness, and traveling to new countries. She is excited and honored to come to Washington, D.C., and... Read More

Tilly

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Since Tilly’s T1D diagnosis at age 2, raising awareness has been important to her and her family. She has attended countless events for JDRF... Read More

Cheyenne

Alabama, 2019

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Cheyenne was diagnosed with T1D shortly after someone else very important in her life—her father was diagnosed. T1D fundraising and advocacy is a... Read More

John Henry

Alabama, 2019

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

John Henry is involved in a number of activities including show choir, flag football and scouting. He hopes to become an Eagle Scout... Read More

Bruno

Alaska, 2019

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 18 Months

From hiking to hunting, fishing to archery, Bruno loves being outdoors. He is very active in Boy Scouts, and is excited to... Read More

Grant

Arizona, 2019

Age: 5 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Although Grant is only five, he has already grown into a big advocate for those living with T1D. His parents describe his attitude... Read More

Rachel

Arizona, 2019

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Rachel lives with both T1D and childhood Graves’ disease, and she refuses to let either slow her down. Rachel stays very active by... Read More

Jack Walker

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Jack Walker loves being outdoors, spending his time hunting, hiking and mowing the lawn. Jack Walker also enjoys drawing, writing, and learning about... Read More

Kasey

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Kasey is always standing up for the rights of others, and plans to pursue a career in human or animal rights someday. Kasey... Read More

Makenzie

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11 months

Makenzie shines onstage as a talented actor, singer, hip hop dancer and videographer. She enjoys performing in her school plays and with... Read More

Zane

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Since Zane was diagnosed with T1D at age eight, he and his family have been an unstoppable force for the T1D community. In... Read More

Andrew

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

When Andrew was diagnosed with T1D at age three, he knew he had to be very brave in order to live well the... Read More

Anthony

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Anthony has earned the highest rank a Boy Scout can achieve, Eagle Scout. Scouts are resilient, resourceful and spend years working to benefit... Read More

Bella

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Bella always wanted to follow in her father’s footsteps and join the Navy. However, when she was 13, she was diagnosed with T1D,... Read More

Grace

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Grace keeps busy as an honor student, member of several different clubs and a tennis and soccer player. Despite her full schedule, Grace... Read More

Jamie

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

When Jamie decides to do something, she really commits to it. She started playing the violin four years ago, and is now the... Read More

Jeremy

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Jeremy is an active high school junior who enjoys spending time with his friends and snowboarding, and hopes to have a career in... Read More

Jessica

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

When Jessica was first diagnosed with T1D at age 10, she had a rough time adjusting to what life was like living with... Read More

Jonah

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

In the two years since Jonah was diagnosed with T1D, he has made a lasting impression on his local community including his Members... Read More

Natalie

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

When Natalie was diagnosed with T1D at just eight years old, she received a visit in the hospital from a friend from school... Read More

Teddy

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Teddy is an expert at managing his full schedule of mock trial, lacrosse and being on the dean’s honor roll, all while successfully... Read More

Thomas

District of Columbia, 2019

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Thomas has been active since he was little playing soccer, baseball, flag football and basketball. Thomas says that what he enjoys the most... Read More

Jacque

Colorado, 2019

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Jacque is a very busy and fun 11-year-old, who is passionate about musical theater and plays piano, softball and just started playing trombone... Read More

Jaden

Colorado, 2019

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Jaden is proud of himself for a number of reasons—and rightfully so—he and his baseball team won the Little League World Series in... Read More

Sophie

Colorado, 2019

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Sophie is passionate about so many activities: from competitive soccer to jazz band, pep band and honors wind symphony, to National Junior Honors... Read More

Emma

Connecticut, 2019

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Following Emma’s T1D diagnosis in 2007, her father was diagnosed in 2010, and one of her younger brothers was diagnosed in 2015. Since... Read More

Logan

Connecticut, 2019

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 17 Months

Logan enjoys being a collector, and is currently focused on collecting Hot Wheels and different kinds of money. He stays very active... Read More

Owen

Delaware, 2019

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

T1D is no match for Owen, who earned his brown belt and moved into the advanced classes in karate last year. He competes... Read More

Duncan

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

If you are looking for Duncan, he is probably on a soccer field. He plays for his high school’s team, a travel team... Read More

Brock

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Brock loves playing sports, especially football, and has dreams of playing in the NFL one day. In addition to being an MVP quarterback,... Read More

Caden

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

If you want to know about all things basketball, Caden is your go-to guy! In addition to playing basketball at school, Caden serves... Read More

Cal

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Cal is the true definition of a T1D champion. Since he was diagnosed with T1D in 2011, he and his family have supported... Read More

Claire

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

At just 12 years of age, Claire is quite an accomplished young woman. She is an athlete, photographer, actress, inventor and most recently... Read More

Jasmine

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Jasmine is a varsity cheerleader, volunteer at a nursing home and a member of a female empowerment group that brings together young girls... Read More

Juliet

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Juliet is a girl who always has a smile on her face, even when faced with the challenges of T1D. When she was... Read More

Mia

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Mia enjoys drawing detailed anime characters, singing and dancing along to Hamilton, playing with her Boston Terrier Banzo and goofing around with her... Read More

RJ

Age: 4 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8 months

It’s tough to find a 4-year-old boy as resilient and strong as RJ. When he was diagnosed with T1D at just 8... Read More

Robinson

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Robinson knows how special a supportive group of friends can be when you have T1D. At a young age, she and her friends... Read More

Sabine

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Sabine is a level two blue belt in taekwondo, and is proud of earning a gold medal for sparring in a regional tournament.... Read More

Stefano

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 15

Stefano is no ordinary kid. From the time of his diagnosis in 2014, he made it a purpose to break all stereotypes and... Read More

Catelin

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Catelin received her T1D diagnosis two years ago, but she and her family were already familiar with the disease since both of her... Read More

Hayden

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Hayden successfully manages a busy schedule of school, travel and playing on the lacrosse team. Despite living in Atlanta, he spends about 20... Read More

Malakai

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Malakai was diagnosed with T1D less than a year ago, but hasn’t let it stop him from continuing to do the things he... Read More

MJ

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

MJ is no stranger to speaking with people about what life with T1D is like. Every year, he sets aside time to tell... Read More

Ty

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Ty and his family have learned to adjust to life with not only him having T1D, but his older brother and younger sister... Read More

Emi

Hawaii, 2019

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

You can usually find Emi dancing hula, playing soccer or participating in baseball. Emi loves reading and hopes to become a librarian when... Read More

Connor

Idaho, 2019

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

When Connor was diagnosed with T1D at age 11, he was already pretty familiar with the disease, because his brother was diagnosed just... Read More

Abigael

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Abigael is a very passionate person. She is deeply involved in many activities, from her varsity tennis team, to playing flute and piccolo... Read More

Jackie

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Jackie is an honors student, a freshman class officer, a member of the Spanish Club, Pep Club and show choir, and competes in... Read More

Morgan

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Morgan is a lively 10-year-old who enjoys dancing, playing tennis and hanging out with her friends. She was also selected by one of... Read More

Owen

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

It is rare to find a seven-year-old as well-spoken and charismatic as Owen, who was diagnosed with T1D when he was just two.... Read More

Ella

Indiana, 2019

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Ella has been doing gymnastics since she was four, the age she was diagnosed with T1D, and hopes to go professional. Ella says,... Read More

Claire

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Claire is making big things happen. Her busy schedule includes cheerleading, student council, Key Club, the school play, Speech Club, choir, concert band,... Read More

Hattie

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Hattie is a busy girl with a wide variety of interests. She plays piano and softball, dances, bakes and plays video games. On... Read More

Theo

Age: 4 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Every day at Theo’s house is Halloween! Theo loves dressing up and pretending he is a superhero or dinosaur, specifically an ankylosaurus, which... Read More

Todd

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

When Todd was diagnosed with T1D in December 2017, he was scared of all the lifestyle changes that come with the disease. However,... Read More

Garrett

Kansas, 2019

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

When Garrett was just shy of two years old, he was diagnosed with T1D. In the nine years since diagnosis, Garrett has become... Read More

Kalli

Kansas, 2019

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Kalli is a talented dancer who travels around the country participating in competitions as a member of a competitive dance team at Styles... Read More

Macy

Kentucky, 2019

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Macy is an avid softball player, she currently plays for one of the top softball programs in the country, playing in tournaments nationwide.... Read More

Noah

Kentucky, 2019

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Noah, the oldest of four kids, is a great big brother and an excellent role model. He loves all sports, especially lacrosse and... Read More

Riley

Kentucky, 2019

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Riley is a member of her school’s field hockey and crew teams, and also enjoys singing and acting in her school’s theatre... Read More

Blake

Louisiana, 2019

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Between baseball, football and basketball, Blake always stays active. On top of his many sports, he stays active with JDRF advocating for the... Read More

Carson

Louisiana, 2019

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 16

Carson is an accomplished athlete who began playing baseball at age six. Now, he plays baseball on his high school varsity team as... Read More

Mia Grace

Louisiana, 2019

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Mia Grace is a competitive year-round swimmer, participating with both her local swim club and her school’s varsity swim team. When she’s not... Read More

Lydia

Maine, 2019

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Prior to her diagnosis, Lydia already knew the importance of T1D research because she had been supporting her friend’s JDRF One Walk team... Read More

Ruby

Maine, 2019

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Ruby is excited to attend JDRF 2019 Children’s Congress after years of advocating locally for the T1D community, and is ready to meet... Read More

Jocelyn

Maryland, 2019

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Jocelyn is passionate about everything she does. From competitive rock climbing to writing and photography, Jocelyn is a well-rounded teen who hasn’t let... Read More

Matthew

Maryland, 2019

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Matthew was diagnosed with both T1D and celiac disease just last year, but he’s accomplished a lot since then. The month after he... Read More

Lilly

Massachusetts, 2019

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Lilly makes sure to include time for giving back to others as part of her already busy schedule of school, track and lacrosse.... Read More

Mia

Massachusetts, 2019

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Mia is a very caring girl who prides herself on being kind to others and making friends. She loves music, playing with her... Read More

Sammy

Massachusetts, 2019

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Sammy has overcome many fears since being diagnosed with T1D when he was six. Now, with his insulin pump and CGM, he can... Read More

Carly

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Carly is an honor student who tirelessly spends time advocating for those living with T1D in her own community. She has been involved... Read More

Jack

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Jack is a busy guy. He plays several different sports, enjoys school and hanging out with his friends, and is one of the... Read More

Lindsay

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Lindsay is an avid soccer player who is planning to play for her high school team this spring. She also enjoys writing, traveling... Read More

Will

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Will is no stranger to talking about what life is like with T1D. As a JDRF Youth Ambassador, he’s given speeches about T1D... Read More

Amelia

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8 months

Amelia is an accomplished musician who plays both piano and violin, and even had the opportunity to travel to London last summer... Read More

Anthony

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 18 Months

Anthony is a junior in high school and starting catcher on his high school’s baseball team. When he’s not in school or... Read More

Elizabeth

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Elizabeth enjoys playing volleyball, participating in the dive team and competing with the track and field team. In addition to sports, she also... Read More

Skylar

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Skylar is a straight-A student with a love of reading, writing, electronic music, shopping and drawing. She’s very involved with JDRF and has... Read More

Andrew

Mississippi, 2019

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Andrew enjoys Nascar, antique cars, hunting and playing basketball. At school he enjoys math and science, and is a proud member of both... Read More

Mary Blair

Mississippi, 2019

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Mary Blair is one active little girl! She loves participating in ballet and art classes, playing tennis, and is an avid reader as... Read More

Isaac

Missouri, 2019

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Isaac enjoys reading, soccer and basketball, but especially loves music! Rock stars need their hands to play their instruments. As Isaac puts it,... Read More

Jaden

Missouri, 2019

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Everyone who has met Jaden knows she is a an incredibly positive, outgoing and fun girl. In addition to being a competitive cheerleader,... Read More

Roland

Montana, 2019

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11 months

While visiting family at just 11 months old, Roland’s grandparents—who were already familiar with T1D symptoms—made a striking observation that ultimately lead... Read More

Riley

Nebraska, 2019

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Riley has been active her entire life, and when she was diagnosed with T1D at age seven, she knew she wasn’t going to... Read More

Sofia

Nebraska, 2019

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Sofia is an extremely positive teenager, who met her T1D diagnosis with optimism and curiosity when she was just 10 years old. Having... Read More

Ashby

Nevada, 2019

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Though Ashby was diagnosed with T1D in 2015, she and her family were no strangers to the disease, as her grandmother, great-grandmother, two... Read More

Charley

Nevada, 2019

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Charley claims she is an ordinary teenage girl, but her attitude toward living with T1D makes her quite extraordinary. Since she was diagnosed... Read More

Andy

New Hampshire, 2019

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Between gymnastics, running, snowboarding and ski jumping, Andy is basically a one-man Olympics team. He is a competitive gymnast and travels to competitions... Read More

Jackson

New Hampshire, 2019

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Jackson is one active guy. He plays football, basketball and baseball, and says that one of his proudest moments has been making the... Read More

Arianna

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Arianna is not defined by her diabetes: after being told she could not be an astronaut, she got accepted into space camp. She... Read More

Danny

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Danny does an incredible job of managing a full schedule of academics and extra curricular activities including serving as vice president of his... Read More

Jameson

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Jameson knows that the T1D community is supportive regardless of where one lives, because he’s experienced it firsthand. He and his family have... Read More

John

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

When John isn’t tearing up the ice as part of his travel hockey team, or surfing at the beach with his brother and... Read More

Keyonna

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Keyonna has always been a very ambitious and creative person, and now is excited to take her passion to Washington, D.C. for Children’s... Read More

Zoey

Age: 5 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Zoey never lets T1D slow her down. She enjoys going to pre-school, playing with her older sister, dancing, playing at the park, coloring... Read More

Katie

New Mexico, 2019

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Just a couple of days before Katie was diagnosed with T1D, she competed at Divisionals for competitive rock climbing. At the competition, she... Read More

Ben

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

After Ben was diagnosed with T1D, his parents had his three younger brothers tested for T1D autoantibodies, and his younger brother Zach turned... Read More

Chandler

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Chandler is a pro when it comes to public speaking. He has spoken at his church, had roles in several plays and has... Read More

Emily

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Emily says that she doesn’t remember life without T1D, but while it’s her “normal,” she still has to think about it every second... Read More

Evelyn

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Evelyn is a shining light for other kids with T1D. She loves making new friends and being part of the Sugar Free Gang,... Read More

Luke

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

When Luke was diagnosed with T1D just after his first birthday, his family was all too familiar with T1D; Luke’s father, uncle and... Read More

Marin

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Marin is passionate about T1D technologies and research advancements, and helping to ensure that the T1D community has access to devices that make... Read More

Max

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Max has a busy schedule participating in student council, lacrosse, basketball, cross country and the International Club. Max also makes time for raising... Read More

Merrill

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 15 months

Merrill is thrilled to be coming back to Washington, D.C. with her family for her second JDRF Children’s Congress. In the ten... Read More

Sarah

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Sarah is a motivated young woman who seizes every opportunity to benefit her community. She stays busy outside of school through basketball, soccer,... Read More

Sophie

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Sophie is a creative girl with a passion for all things relating to the arts. She loves reading, writing, drawing and photography. Sophie... Read More

Catchie

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Catchie hasn’t let T1D stand in her way of being a competitive gymnast—practicing and competing for 20 hours each week—and dreams of becoming... Read More

Ella

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Ella plays goalie on her school’s varsity lacrosse team, and is already receiving interest from college coaches. Off of the field, Ella is... Read More

Jack

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Jack doesn’t remember a lot about being in the hospital at age three when he was diagnosed with T1D, but he does remember... Read More

Kabir

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 14

When Kabir was diagnosed with T1D, he worried about the changes it would bring to him and his family’s lives and all of... Read More

Will

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 15 months

Will has had T1D as long as he can remember. When he was diagnosed at only 15 months old, his parents had... Read More

Danika

North Dakota, 2019

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Danika is determined to make a difference. Danika loves giving back to her community through service projects with her school’s student council, which... Read More

C.C.

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13 months

C.C. maintains a busy schedule full of basketball, softball, Girl Scouts, swimming, traveling and acting, but none of those things stop her... Read More

Sam

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 15 months

Sam is a leader both in the classroom and on the field, as an honor roll student who also participates in club... Read More

Skye

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Skye is usually described as strong, brave, and “one tough cookie!” After her T1D diagnosis, these words became even more descriptive of how... Read More

Tyler

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Though Tyler is just 10 years old, he has already met with more Members of Congress than most people do in a lifetime.... Read More

Lundyn

Oklahoma, 2019

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

When Lundyn was diagnosed with T1D at age six, like any kid her age, she was terrified of needles. In the years since... Read More

Bram

Oregon, 2019

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Bram may have only been diagnosed with T1D last year, but he has maintained a positive attitude and does not let it stop... Read More

Ellie

Oregon, 2019

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

When Ellie was first diagnosed with T1D, it was difficult for her to learn that there is currently no cure for the disease,... Read More

Adriana

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Adriana is an inspiration and a true testament to the amazing things young adults with T1D can do. She has an Instagram account... Read More

Joey

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Joey loves playing hockey so much that he’s on two team rosters. He changed his hockey number to 53 after his T1D diagnosis... Read More

Libby

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Libby is involved in many different activities that all have a common theme—giving back to others. She is co-leader of her school’s No... Read More

Mairead

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Mairead is a very talented Irish dancer. She spends much of her time in the studio practicing and dancing in competitions, many of... Read More

Chloe

Rhode Island, 2019

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Chloe is a bright light who brings positivity everywhere she goes. She stays busy between playing on a Unified basketball team and running... Read More

Jackson

Rhode Island, 2019

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Since Jackson was first diagnosed with T1D in 2013, he has progressed from finger sticks and insulin injections to CGM and insulin pump... Read More

Hannah

South Carolina, 2019

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Hannah enjoys participating in cross country and track and field not only from an athletics perspective, but also a T1D advocacy perspective. “Through... Read More

Kate

South Carolina, 2019

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Kate is a very gifted musician, playing an impressively long list of instruments. She studies piano, organ, cello, guitar and percussion. Kate also... Read More

William

South Carolina, 2019

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Not only is William an honor student, he’s also a USTA tennis player, playing in tournaments and on his high school team. When... Read More

Sam

South Dakota, 2019

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Sam is an active student, lettering in both track and football, all while maintaining his spot on his school’s honor roll. In addition... Read More

Clayton

Tennessee, 2019

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Everyone in Knoxville knows Clayton, from his many appearances on the news, to thanking customers at local stores supporting JDRF. Since he was... Read More

Elijah

Tennessee, 2019

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

After his grandmother passed away due to complications from T1D, Elijah committed to taking the best possible care of himself and managing his... Read More

Sofi

Tennessee, 2019

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 15

When first diagnosed with T1D, Sofi was anxious about suddenly having to care for her own health, manage medical devices and give herself... Read More

Brandon

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Brandon is a talented musician, playing drums and guitar. He loves music of all kinds and looks forward to practicing every day after... Read More

Brianna

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Brianna already knows what dog she will own upon moving to the White House when she becomes the President someday. Brianna is very... Read More

Brody

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 15

Brody is no stranger to giving back to those around him, in fact, he wants to make it his career one day by... Read More

Carson

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Carson was only two years old when he joined his father who is living with T1D. Though Carson is young, he shows that... Read More

Cole

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13 months

When he isn’t hitting home runs on the baseball diamond, you can find Cole filming his YouTube channel where he and his... Read More

Grayson

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Grayson is an active guy who enjoys tennis, basketball, Star Wars, playing video games with his friends and participating in taekwondo where he... Read More

Lexi

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Lexi is described as “a role model for young people with T1D.” Her willingness to do all she can for T1D research has... Read More

Lulu

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

When forced to evacuate by Hurricane Harvey, Lulu and her family were most concerned about packing enough insulin and T1D supplies before leaving... Read More

Madison

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Madison is a great outdoors expert. She raises animals for Future Farmers of America (FFA), and her livestock judging team even made it... Read More

Nadia

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Nadia is an enthusiastic, active seven-year-old who doesn’t let anything stand in her way, especially not T1D! She loves attending diabetes camp in... Read More

Stella

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Stella might be young, but her commitment to raising awareness about T1D is mighty! It’s because of this, as well as her leadership... Read More

Lyla

Utah, 2019

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Lyla is a bilingual actor, singer, dancer, and athlete who wants to be an endocrinologist when she grows up. She loves to perform... Read More

Tannon

Utah, 2019

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Tannon has big plans, and as a future innovator, he works to ensure he will be successful in his aspirations. He plans to... Read More

Zack

Utah, 2019

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Zack is a tremendous golfer and tennis player who excels in both sports. He has played on both his school’s golf and tennis... Read More

Ellie

Vermont, 2019

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

It was no surprise to Ellie’s parents when she was diagnosed with T1D at the age of five because both of her parents... Read More

Chloe

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Chloe is a brilliant girl with a bright future ahead of her. She is very active in her community, plays volleyball and loves... Read More

Ellie

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Ellie loves participating in ballet and hip hop dance classes and swimming, and recently completed her first 5K run. She is very proud... Read More

Garrett

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Garrett is extremely passionate about everything he does. He loves organized sports, and plays hockey, basketball, football, soccer, golf and is a swimmer.... Read More

Hugh

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Hugh is a talented musician who plays violin, viola, piano and recorder, performing with both his school’s jazz band and honors orchestra. Hugh... Read More

Jamie

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Jamie loves volleyball, softball and basketball, as well as being actively involved with JDRF. She takes part in local T1D support group meetings,... Read More

Austin

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

At Austin’s first JDRF event, he was pushed around in a stroller at a JDRF One Walk in support of his older brother... Read More

CJ

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

CJ isn’t afraid to enthusiastically try new things—from mountain biking to snowboarding, and becoming a go-to source for all things exotic car related—he’s... Read More

Juliana

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

For so many kids, Christmas is a day of gifts, family and delicious food. In 2008, Juliana, however, spent Christmas in the hospital... Read More

Natalie

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Natalie has enjoyed running for many years, and has refused to let T1D stop her. In fact, just two years ago, she ran... Read More

Emerson

West Virginia, 2019

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Emerson refuses to let T1D block him from doing the things he loves, which include playing lacrosse, hiking, participating in Boy Scouts and... Read More

Danielle

Wisconsin, 2019

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Danielle loves exploring and trying out new, exciting things, participating in Model United Nations, volunteering at a nursing home assisting elderly residents and... Read More

Gabby

Wisconsin, 2019

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Gabby is a talented musician and golfer. She loves to play piano and sing, and even sang in a music festival in Wisconsin.... Read More

Miles

Wisconsin, 2019

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Diagnosed with T1D at just four years old, Miles recalls not being able to fully understand his diagnosis until he was a bit... Read More

Holden

Wyoming, 2019

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... Read More

Carolien

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Carolien is a seasoned field hockey athlete, playing since she was seven years old, and loves to travel whenever she gets the chance.... Read More

Katie

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Katie loves playing sports, particularly hockey and skiing, and has even competed in the British Ski Championships. Katie is sure to keep an... Read More

Ori

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Ori is a fourth-generation farmer, an accomplished piano and organ player, and enjoys doing Crossfit. Adjusting to life with T1D was something that... Read More

Samir

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Samir loves to stay active by playing soccer, ultimate frisbee and golf, and also enjoys public speaking. He is also incredibly active with... Read More

Teagan

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Teagan enjoys being active and sporty, spending time at the zoo, playing with her dog and is always up for watching a good... Read More

Fernando

Alabama, 2017

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Fernando is an honor roll student who likes football and track. He wants to be an engineer when he grows up. Fernando’s mother... Read More

Lily

Alabama, 2017

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Lily loves all kinds of art: painting, sketching and digital art. Someday she would like to be a veterinarian. The newest technologies have... Read More

Arianna

Alaska, 2017

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Arianna is a seventh grader who loves school and plans to be inducted into the National Junior Honor Society this year. She’s also... Read More

Aiden

Arizona, 2017

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Aiden loves sports, playing with his brother and sister and reading. Three years ago, he developed celiac disease and the added burden has... Read More

AJ

Arizona, 2017

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

AJ enjoys hanging out with his friends, riding his bike and uploading videos to his YouTube gaming channel. Each year, AJ speaks in... Read More

Davis

Arizona, 2017

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Davis is an active musician, playing violin and piano, and singing in choir. He also runs cross country and plays soccer. Davis’ two... Read More

Garner

Arkansas, 2017

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Garner plays football, baseball and basketball—and he tries not to let T1D slow him down. He takes part in JDRF One Walk, serves... Read More

Kathlyn

Arkansas, 2017

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Kathlyn is a straight-A student and a member of a competitive dance team. She also serves as a JDRF Youth Ambassador, and organized... Read More

Avery

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Avery is a veteran participant of the Greater Bay Area Chapter’s JDRF One Walk event. She also volunteers at the chapter’s Tee-to-Table event... Read More

Bria

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

In her spare time, Bria enjoys gymnastics, drawing and acting in plays, such as The Wizard of Oz. She says, “When I grow... Read More

Carter

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Carter is a Youth Ambassador and Youth Advocacy Leader representing JDRF’s Greater Bay Area Chapter. In those capacities he has spoken at the... Read More

Chase

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Chase enjoys playing basketball—he plays on three teams—and spending time with his dog and two cats. In 2013, he participated in a clinical... Read More

Elijah

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Elijah is likely the only Delegate this year who has a pet pig. The 4H member brings his pet along with him to... Read More

Evan

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Pro baseball player, pro basketball player, or T1D research scientist: those are some of the career options being considered by Evan. Right now,... Read More

Joey

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Joey enjoys playing competitive lacrosse and football, loves to hang out with friends and family, and is a committed volunteer. He looks forward... Read More

Jonathan

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Jonathan, a JDRF 2011 Children’s Congress Delegate, is excited to return as Chair Kid for JDRF 2017 Children’s Congress. Since Jonathan’s diagnosis in... Read More

Kurt

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Kurt keeps up-to-date on expected advances in treatments for T1D and is excited about artificial pancreas systems. “I liked the idea of not... Read More

Madison

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Madison enjoys painting, dance and sports. “When I grow up I want to be a doctor. I want to help babies when they... Read More

Miranda

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Miranda loves dancing, spending time with her friends at diabetes camp and competing in her school’s science fair. She loves playing with her... Read More

Nikhita

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Nikhita enjoys playing varsity tennis, participating in speech competitions, baking and watching Golden State Warriors games. She is also a dedicated feminist who... Read More

Thomas

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Thomas is in jazz band at school and his favorite hobby is drumming. He also enjoys ultimate frisbee, history, and politics. Thomas tries... Read More

Vincent

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Since he was diagnosed four years ago, Vincent Po’oi has led one of Northern California Inland Chapter’s largest and most effective JDRF One... Read More

Ellie

Colorado, 2017

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Ellie likes to perform Irish dance, play soccer and violin, and sing in choir. When she grows up she would like to become... Read More

Thomas

Colorado, 2017

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Thomas and his family have been active with JDRF since shortly after his diagnosis at age three. Thomas has served as a Youth... Read More

Bobby

Connecticut, 2017

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Bobby enjoys taking part in Model UN and coming up with solutions to real world issues. Both his sister and father also live... Read More

Isabelle

Connecticut, 2017

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Isabelle loves to dance, particularly classic ballet, and take part in Model UN. Her goal is to attend medical school to become an... Read More

Schuyler

Connecticut, 2017

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Schuyler loves sports, baking and traveling with her family. When she grows up, she wants to be involved with T1D by helping others... Read More

Brynn

Delaware, 2017

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Where have you seen her face before? Maybe on the cover of JDRF’s 2016 Special Diabetes Program brochure, or you might recognize her... Read More

Chloe

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Chloe is proud of to take all honors and AP classes—and maintain a 3.8 GPA—while dealing with the effects of blood sugar highs... Read More

Crew

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Crew has had T1D for more than half of his young life. “Being type 1 is harsh,” he says. “I don’t really like... Read More

Gabby

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Gabby enjoys gymnastics, swimming and performing on stage. Children’s Congress will not be the beginning of Gabby’s advocacy; she already has been active in... Read More

Jaime

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Jaime loves baseball and hopes to one day play professionally. He was born in Puerto Rico and speaks Spanish fluently, which comes in... Read More

Lucas

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

A black belt in tae kwon do and a member of his school’s Math Olympics team, Lucas is also a Youth Ambassador for... Read More

Maeve

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Maeve is a kindergartner who is currently homeschooled, and her favorite activities are jumping on the trampoline and doing artwork. When she grows... Read More

Reed

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Reed is a competitive gymnast and musician who plays guitar and writes his own songs. Since he was diagnosed, there have been ups... Read More

Samantha

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Samantha likes swimming, playing basketball and writing stories. From the day she was diagnosed, Samantha and her family have had a great attitude about... Read More

Caroline

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Caroline enjoys playing flute in marching band, attending Camp Adam Fisher for kids with diabetes and her family’s yearly summer beach trip. Her... Read More

Lucy

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Lucy is a swimmer who enjoys participating in Model UN and hanging out with her friends. She is also very committed to advocating... Read More

Micah

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 18 months

Micah loves to play lacrosse—and he hopes to continue to play in college. When his young parents couldn’t handle managing his diabetes,... Read More

Priya

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Priya enjoys playing the flute, singing and drawing. Priya isn’t the only person in her family with T1D; her brother has T1D as... Read More

Alyssa

Hawaii, 2017

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 18 months

As a tennis player, ballet dancer, musician and member of student government, Alyssa barely has time for type 1 diabetes. But she... Read More

Claire

Idaho, 2017

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Claire has had T1D for more than half her life, but has not let it stop her from living her life to the... Read More

Grace

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Grace is a straight-A student who enjoys playing volleyball, doing gymnastics and attending diabetes camp every summer. When she grows up she would... Read More

Lauren

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Lauren enjoys soccer, basketball, swimming and skiing. Her favorite music is the soundtrack from Hamilton. When she grows up, Lauren wants to create... Read More

Leah

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

After her diagnosis with T1D, Leah had to make a decision: take control of her T1D or let it dominate her life. Leah... Read More

Matthew

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Matthew likes to play drums, ride his bike and hang out with friends. He is also very proud to be a part of... Read More

Becca

Indiana, 2017

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Becca enjoys tennis, student council and peer mentoring. She is also a huge Chicago Cubs fan. In addition to having T1D, Becca also... Read More

Katie

Indiana, 2017

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Katie hopes to become a Certified Diabetes Educator when she is older. Until then, she is doing her best to spread the word... Read More

Corinne

Iowa, 2017

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Corinne is in kindergarten and she enjoys swimming, dancing and creating her own books. She recently joined 4-H Clover Kids and signed up... Read More

Tegan

Iowa, 2017

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Last year, Tegan and more than 1,600 of her closest friends led the largest JDRF One Walk team in the Greater Iowa Chapter’s... Read More

Caden

Kansas, 2017

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Aspiring pro baseball player Caden is stepping up to the plate against T1D. Although he’s only six years old, Caden is a veteran... Read More

Keigan

Kansas, 2017

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Keigan’s family left their home on December 1, 2011, heading to a restaurant to celebrate a birthday. Instead, they found themselves at the... Read More

Mary Clare

Kansas, 2017

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Mary Clare is a very active high school junior who is involved with student council, cross country, debate and lacrosse. She looks up... Read More

Christopher

Kentucky, 2017

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Christopher enjoys playing football, running track and competing with his high school weightlifting team. He wants to study criminal justice in college and... Read More

Joey

Kentucky, 2017

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Joey is proud to be ranked as one of the top ten tennis players in his age range in Kentucky. His father also... Read More

Trista

Kentucky, 2017

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Trista is a true mix of a country girl and a city girl. She enjoys cheerleading, hunting, kickball and camping. When she grows... Read More

Rory

Louisiana, 2017

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Like son, like father? That’s right. Rory was a six-year-old living with T1D when his father, Rhett, was diagnosed as well. Since then,... Read More

Brady

Maine, 2017

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

When Brady grows up, he wants to be a professional baseball player or an engineer. He loves sports, especially baseball, football, basketball and... Read More

Charlie

Maine, 2017

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Charlie’s favorite activity in the world is sports. He has a red belt in Hapkido—and plays football, basketball and baseball. Charlie is very... Read More

Alex

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Alex likes to play tennis, get together with her friends and travel with her family. When she grows up she wants to work... Read More

Kaili

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Kaili wants to be a writer someday. He also enjoys building model kits, volunteering and public speaking. Being diagnosed with T1D was a... Read More

Margaret

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Margaret is very passionate about dance, visual art and volunteering. She says, “Despite my diagnosis, I am extremely proud to say that I... Read More

Sam

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Sam is passionate about field hockey—and she loves history, ceramics and baking. Her younger brother also has T1D and Sam says, “We estimate... Read More

Casey

Massachusetts, 2017

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Summer camp is usually a place to relax, but for Casey, it was a life-changing experience. After struggling with her diabetes with only... Read More

Ceci

Massachusetts, 2017

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

The Executive Director of the JDRF New England Chapter refers to Ceci as one of her “go-to” volunteers. Ceci has participated in the... Read More

Danielle

Massachusetts, 2017

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Danielle likes math, chemistry and cross-country running. When she grows up she wants to work as a physician assistant in endocrinology to “help... Read More

Ethan

Michigan, 2017

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Ethan’s latest JDRF One Walk was a labor of love. The way he is managing his T1D so inspired a friend of his... Read More

Jack

Michigan, 2017

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Jack was lucky that he was diagnosed with T1D soon after his symptoms began because his parents were aware of the signs. Managing... Read More

Lola

Michigan, 2017

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

When not leading her team at a JDRF One Walk, which together have raised close to $100,000 to date, Lola likes to play... Read More

Caroline

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Since being diagnosed right after her third birthday, Caroline has had a positive attitude about living with T1D. To keep upbeat, she repeats... Read More

Eric

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Eric loves playing hockey, football and Xbox. When he grows up he wants to be a professional hockey or football player, though his... Read More

Leland

Age: 5 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Leland loves to play Minecraft, ride his Superman bike and dress up as a Storm Trooper. He is very proud of gaining the... Read More

Lincoln

Age: 5 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Lincoln loves to go to preschool, build with Legos and play hide-and-go-seek. Lincoln was diagnosed with T1D before his twin brother and likes... Read More

Annabelle

Mississippi, 2017

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Annabelle enjoys deer hunting, fishing, softball and cheerleading. She wants to attend college and pursue a career in public relations or education. Annabelle... Read More

Sarah

Mississippi, 2017

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Sarah is involved in theater, sings in choir and plays varsity soccer and tennis. In the future, she wants to major in history... Read More

Ashley

Missouri, 2017

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

In her free time, Ashley is in two dance groups and competes in speech and debate tournaments. She also spends a lot of... Read More

Demi

Missouri, 2017

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Demi loves to dance and make funny videos. When she grows up she wants to be Miss America and earn a BA degree... Read More

Quaid

Montana, 2017

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Quaid is a natural communicator. He is an informal community ambassador and spokesperson for JDRF’s Montana Council, as well as a mentor to... Read More

Jackson

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Jackson is an eighth grader who loves hockey and baseball. He has a lot to be proud of this year: he is a... Read More

Maddie

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 14 months

Maddie is a typical teenager who loves playing sports, hanging out with her friends and shopping. She loves to travel and her... Read More

Sadie

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Sadie’s passions are art, writing, math and law. Last year she took a class trip to Washington, D.C., where the Supreme Court building... Read More

Sawyer

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Sawyer loves hockey and plays defense for three different teams. His goal is to play club hockey for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He... Read More

Erick

Nevada, 2017

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

As one half of ‘Two Against 1,’ a fundraising team of siblings with T1D, fifteen-year-old Erick is a busy young man. Diagnosed in... Read More

Logan

Nevada, 2017

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

After Logan was diagnosed with T1D, he wondered if he would have to give up his favorite activities. But when he learned his... Read More

Oaklie

Nevada, 2017

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Like her older brother, Erick, Oaklie is passionate about helping JDRF find a cure for T1D. A JDRF Youth Ambassador and JDRF speaker,... Read More

Anna

New Hampshire, 2017

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Anna loves animals and wants to be a veterinarian when she grows up. Last year her community held a fundraiser to help pay... Read More

Holden

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Holden’s aspirations are literally sky high. He would like to be an astronaut when he grows up, and says he won’t let his... Read More

Ian

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Ian has declared war on his T1D. “I think the biggest accomplishment I have is that I fight and beat diabetes every day,”... Read More

Isa

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Isabella loves drawing, writing, reading, gymnastics and swimming. She is only eight, but she’s already a walker, fundraiser and advocate. Recently, she met... Read More

Jack

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

“I am NOT a diabetic, I HAVE diabetes,” says Jack, who wants to make one thing very clear: people with T1D are just... Read More

Evan

New Mexico, 2017

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Evan is an avid fisherman, rifleman and marksman. He also enjoys flag football, basketball and track. Evan and his family, including his grandparents,... Read More

Ari

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13 months

Ten-year-old Ari estimates he has tested his blood sugar some 30,000 times in his life and endured 2,000 insulin pump site changes.... Read More

Daniel

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Daniel wrote the book about living with T1D. Literally. As part of his mission to raise awareness about T1D, Daniel wrote a book... Read More

Drew

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Academics are very important to Drew—and his GPA is proof of that. He also loves wrestling, which has become more manageable since he... Read More

Ethan

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Ethan accidentally diagnosed himself with T1D. He was helping his younger brother, Ari, test his glucose level, and decided on the spur of... Read More

Hannah

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Making the world a better place is a top priority for Hannah. As an aspiring human rights activist, Hannah works to make a... Read More

Kennedy

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Kennedy and her mom share more than the typical mother/daughter bond. The two of them also have T1D in common—as well as a... Read More

Mason

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Mason loves to play soccer with his travel team, ride dirt bikes and play Xbox. He recently took part in a 10-day long... Read More

Matthew

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Matthew enjoys traveling, golf, basketball, and community service, specifically tutoring under-privileged kids. This year, he started a JDRF club at his high school.... Read More

Philip

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Philip is a junior in high school who plays volleyball and basketball. He also really loves driving, he says, “I am a typical... Read More

Sofia

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Sofia loves speaking different languages, such as Yiddish and Chinese, and taking pictures on the streets of her native New York City. She... Read More

Chance

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 20 months

Chance really likes arts and crafts—and when he grows up he would like to be an artist, engineer or architect. He and... Read More

Maddie

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Scholar, athlete, and person with T1D. That’s Maddie, a straight A Honor Roll student who also plays varsity tennis and soccer, and helped launch... Read More

Miles

Age: 5 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

This year, Miles started playing T-ball, soccer and basketball. When he grows up he wants to be a member of the Army, a... Read More

Sebastian

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Sebastian is a high school sophomore who has not let T1D stop him from achieving his goals. He is at the top of... Read More

Will

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Will enjoys playing varsity soccer, swimming and tennis. He also loves long-distance running, reading, and surfing. In the future, Will wants to study... Read More

Addison

North Dakota, 2017

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Addison likes to figure skate, swim and play the violin. She wants to be an eye doctor when she grows up. Addison says,... Read More

Brooklyn

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Brooklyn likes collecting rare stamps, practicing archery and performing music. She also enjoys speaking on behalf of people with T1D. She has been... Read More

Graham

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Gators in Northeast Ohio? Yep, specifically ‘Graham’s Gators’; one of the chapter’s top JDRF One Walk teams for five years in a row.... Read More

Paul

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Bowling, cornhole tournaments, bingo nights, car washes and lemonade stands. It’s hard to imagine there’s any way to raise money for T1D research... Read More

Sarah

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Sarah enjoys singing in several choirs and serving as a mentor to newly diagnosed teens in her hometown of Columbus. Life with T1D... Read More

Sean

Oklahoma, 2017

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Sean plays football, soccer and baseball—but hockey is his favorite sport. He also enjoys reading, art and Star Wars. Managing his T1D can... Read More

Tori Lynn

Oklahoma, 2017

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Tori Lynn is passionate about taking part in pageants and advocacy. As the Miss Route 66’s Outstanding Teen 2017, Tori uses her personal... Read More

Anya

Oregon, 2017

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Anya likes to take advantage of all the outdoor activities her hometown has to offer such as hiking, kayaking, skiing and swimming. She also... Read More

Rohan

Oregon, 2017

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 21 months

Diagnosed when he was just a baby, Rohan can’t remember a time when he didn’t have to deal with needle pricks and... Read More

Lorynn

Pennsylvania, 2017

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Lorynn enjoys reading, participating in Girl Scouts, and writing on her blog. She has been involved in JDRF in several different ways—from doing... Read More

Max

Pennsylvania, 2017

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Max enjoys running cross country, skiing and golfing. Max was diagnosed at such a young age that he doesn’t remember it. He says,... Read More

Ryan

Pennsylvania, 2017

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Ryan is a great student who enjoys science and math, and plans to study mechanical, aerospace or computer engineering in college. He also... Read More

Maya

Rhode Island, 2017

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Maya is a reader, dancer and according to her endocrinologist, a T1D all-star. She’s so on top of her T1D that she received... Read More

Cameron

South Carolina, 2017

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Cameron was seven years old when her mother, a nurse, noticed she was exhibiting the symptoms of T1D, which ultimately led to her... Read More

Julian

South Carolina, 2017

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Julian and his family supported JDRF even before his diagnosis with T1D in 2015. His mother had gestational diabetes with both of her... Read More

Riley

South Carolina, 2017

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Riley loves to act, play soccer and swim. When she grows up she wants to be an actress, doctor or vet. Riley knows... Read More

Maddie

South Dakota, 2017

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Maddie likes singing, playing tennis and baking. When she gets older, she would like to become an endocrinologist or pediatric surgeon. Unfortunately, she... Read More

Claire

Tennessee, 2017

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

The beeping of her insulin pump isn’t the worst thing about having T1D. But for Claire, it may be the most annoying. The... Read More

Duncan

Tennessee, 2017

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 16 months

Duncan is a Cub Scout, plays baseball and is active in his school’s chess club. A participant in a gifted program called... Read More

Jackson

Tennessee, 2017

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Jackson is very active and enjoys playing baseball, soccer, tennis, wrestling and swimming. He would like to be an astronaut and a bull... Read More

Anastasia

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Anastasia enjoys cheerleading and golfing. She hopes to soon be the captain of her high school golf team and eventually play in the... Read More

Austin

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Austin enjoys playing football, baseball and spending time with his dog and his friends. He’s been involved with JDRF for years. He has... Read More

Claire

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Claire enjoys playing basketball, running track and volunteering with her church. She was very worried about her future when she was first diagnosed... Read More

Emma

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Emma is a cheerleader who also enjoys playing the flute and participating in sports. She likes helping her dad—who also has T1D—raise awareness... Read More

Henry

Age: 4 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Like his superhero idols, Henry faces a ruthless enemy in T1D. And like them, he uses his powers for good, not evil. His... Read More

Isabelle

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Isabelle enjoys competitive cheerleading, reading and spending time with her friends. She wants to go to the University of Texas and study to... Read More

Kaitlin

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Kaitlin loves playing soccer competitively, acting in plays and drawing with her friends. She hasn’t had T1D for long, and has rapidly adjusted... Read More

Lily

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Lily likes to play soccer and read. She would like to become a cardio-thoracic surgeon or a professional soccer player. Lily is working... Read More

Peyton

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Peyton enjoys playing tennis for his high school’s varsity team, which won the state championship last fall. Managing his diabetes with tennis can... Read More

Sarah

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Sarah has been a JDRF Walk Ambassador for the past 10 years. Five years ago, she became team captain for her JDRF One... Read More

Alex

Utah, 2017

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Alex already has an impressive record in T1D advocacy. His mother and older sister Sophia also have T1D—and his entire family recently campaigned... Read More

Sophia

Utah, 2017

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Sophia is enthusiastic about reaching out to her community about T1D. Her mother and brother Alex also have T1D, and Sophia says, “My... Read More

Sydney

Utah, 2017

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Sydney enjoys being part of a large family, and she loves dance and theater. When it comes to managing her blood sugar, she... Read More

Amanda

Vermont, 2017

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Amanda—whose father and grandfather also have T1D—has grown up with JDRF. Taking part in JDRF One Walks, JDRF Ride, advocating through Promise to... Read More

Joshua

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11 months

Joshua is a soccer player and his dad—who also has T1D—is his coach. He was excited to take part in the University... Read More

Keira

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

T1D is a family affair for Keira’s family. Twelve-year-old Keira was diagnosed a few years ago after her father, who also has T1D,... Read More

Michael

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

When he’s not walking or riding for JDRF, Michael likes to play baseball on a travel team. Since his diagnosis in 2012, Michael... Read More

Trevor

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Trevor is giving T1D a run for its money. A track and field star who qualified to compete in the Junior Olympics four... Read More

Anthony

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Anthony enjoys karate and is working toward his adult black belt. He also likes to play music on the piano, guitar and ukulele.... Read More

Bridget

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Bridget loves reading and studying, especially about subjects that overlap with T1D. She explains, “We have been learning about cell membranes, transport and... Read More

Evie

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Evie loves singing in her school choir and swimming competitively—she even made the district finals for swimming in several events. Performing at a... Read More

Lilly

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Lilly likes swimming competitively, with the goal of someday qualifying for the Olympics. Her sister, Evie, is also a Delegate, and having a... Read More

Lukas

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 14 months

Lukas likes to ride his bike, read and play video games with his friends. He’s proud that he went to three summer... Read More

Sophie

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Sophie likes soccer, reading, watching movies and hanging out with her friends. “However, one of my more unusual pastimes compared to other kids... Read More

Annelies

West Virginia, 2017

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Annelies may only be in high school, but she’s already taking college classes. As a member of the Upward Bound program, she started... Read More

Addison

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

“Diabetes is all I know,” says six-year-old Addison. Diagnosed when she was just three, Addison is already an advocate for the importance of... Read More

Carson

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Carson has personally raised more than $15,000 for T1D research. He has participated in several of the Southeastern Wisconsin Chapter’s JDRF One Walk... Read More

Evan

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Evan likes video games, the Green Bay Packers and solving Rubik’s Cubes. When he grows up he wants to be a professional football... Read More

Lili

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Lili doesn’t let T1D get in the way of the things she loves to do, like playing soccer and basketball, but it does... Read More

Samanatha

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Samantha enjoys cycling, singing in choir, and playing the piano. Since her diagnosis, she has had the full support of her family to... Read More

Casey

Wyoming, 2017

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Casey is a self-starter. She lives more than 300 miles from the nearest JDRF chapter, but that hasn’t stopped her from doing her... Read More

Cash

Wyoming, 2017

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Already at the age of six, Cash is one of those people whom everyone knows. He loves to make new friends and meet... Read More

Freja

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

A native of Denmark, Freja has been telling her T1D story for years. In 2012, her parents published a book about T1D, which... Read More

Laura

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Laura is thrilled to represent the United Kingdom at JDRF 2017 Children’s Congress. She has been an active T1D advocate in her community... Read More

Marley

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Marley of Canada is ready to travel to Washington, D.C, as the Canadian Delegate at JDRF 2017 Children’s Congress. Marley and her mother... Read More

Matan

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Matan, who lives in Israel, loves competing in tennis tournaments and riding his bike with his brother and father. Matan has been active... Read More

Sanne

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 15

Sanne is the Dutch Delegate at JDRF 2017 Children’s Congress. In the first three months after her diagnosis, she struggled with adapting to... Read More

Will

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Hailing from Australia, Will enjoys playing soccer, riding scooters and going to sleepovers with his friends, even though, he says, “Diabetes comes with... Read More

Molly

Alabama, 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Molly, who has a karate black belt, is a “fighter to cure diabetes.” She wants to become a teacher and an author someday... Read More

Kaleb

Alaska, 2015

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

One of the younger delegates, Kaleb wrote a beautiful, handwritten note explaining what a T1D cure would mean to him: “Please help find... Read More

Haley

Arizona, 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

In a moving letter to her Congressman, Haley explained that complications from T1D are “scary for me and the millions of others with... Read More

Katherine

Arizona, 2015

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Katherine is a YouTube sensation! She has created her own fantastic take on Meghan Trainor’s hit song, “All About That Bass,” but with... Read More

Nicole

Arizona, 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Nicole wants to encourage everyone attending JDRF Children’s Congress—and she hopes to inspire even more people when she’s older. “I want to be... Read More

Austin

Arkansas, 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Stretching boundaries comes easily for Austin, a competitive cyclist who rides hundreds of miles each week. “I push myself to limits not just... Read More

Isabella

Arkansas, 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

“I absolutely love getting to promote type 1 diabetes in my community,” shares Isabella. A three–time recipient of the prestigious JDRF Walk Golden... Read More

Brooklynn

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Having TID can be scary. But, as Brooklynn says, “It’s how you deal with that fear that defines you. In my case, I... Read More

Charles

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

When Charlie grows up, he wants to become a mechanical engineer and “work on solving the problems of our ever changing world.” He’s... Read More

Claire

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Claire, who was diagnosed as a young child, says T1D “has always been part of my life.” But technological advances have evolved as... Read More

Delilah

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Delilah remembers the day she was diagnosed. “It was very scary,” she says, “it was a lot to learn.” Yet Delilah has turned... Read More

Grace

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Grace participated in a JDRF Walk about 10 years before she was even diagnosed with T1D—she walked to support her brother, who was... Read More

Hunter

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Hunter is reaching new heights… and it’s not just because he’s an accomplished pole vaulter. (He even taught himself to vault!) Hunter has... Read More

Jackson

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Can you imagine a restaurant designed for people with T1D? Jackson can. He loves going out to eat but is sometimes frustrated that... Read More

Jacob

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

From speech and debate, to robotics and programming, to lacrosse and cycling, Jacob’s passions are as diverse as his many commitments to T1D... Read More

John

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

An avid baseball player, John has played for as long as he can remember on school, little league, all–star and travel teams. “I... Read More

Joseph

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Joseph has some serious fundraising chops. His JDRF Walk team was the second–highest fundraising team in his local JDRF chapter, raising almost $15,000 in... Read More

Laura

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Laura is a hard worker: She helps her dad on their family ranch, and when she grows up, she wants to become a... Read More

Louise

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Louise, who loves reading, writing, drawing and listening to music, has reached a number of impressive goals. “Accomplishments I’m especially proud of include... Read More

Madeleine

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Maddy tells an inspiring story about sharing her experience with T1D: “I gave a short speech at the Imagine Gala about how I... Read More

Olivia

District of Columbia, 2015

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Olivia has Olympic–sized dreams: A talented ice skater, she won two first–place medals in her first competition. “My mom said she was extra... Read More

David

Colorado, 2015

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

David is in good company managing his T1D—his older brother was diagnosed with the disease nearly 12 years before David learned he had... Read More

Michael

Colorado, 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Michael isn’t alone in the struggle against T1D. “I have watched my friends, cousin and my brother diagnosed and struggle the same way... Read More

Olivia

Colorado, 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

“Diabetes has thrown me some challenges over the last ten years,” says Olivia. “But my parents have always taught me that I can... Read More

Claire

Connecticut, 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Every kid living with T1D is brave, and Claire is certainly no exception. She’s already participated in three clinical trials, including one on... Read More

Robert

Connecticut, 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Marshall’s entire family is dedicated to JDRF advocacy. Together, they’ve organized a JDRF Walk, rallying friends and family under the team name “Marshall’s... Read More

Sadie

Delaware, 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Education is important to Sadie—especially educating the public about what it means to have T1D. “It is amazing how few people know about... Read More

Ayame

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Aya has only had T1D for about a year, but she is already an avid advocate for research and innovation. On National T1D... Read More

Cassandra

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Cassandra is truly a JDRF pioneer. Along with her mom and grandma, she helped start six JDRF Walks in her local community, raising... Read More

Hannah

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Hannah is a born leader, certified scuba instructor and JV lacrosse player. As a member of Star Leadership, she has worked on solutions... Read More

Hannah

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Hannah makes the most of each moment. A competitive dancer who practices 15–plus hours weekly (she has placed in the top 10 in... Read More

Maguire

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Maguire is a gifted guitarist. He’s been taking lessons since he was nine, and dreams of becoming a musician or composer. “It is... Read More

Nick

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Nick is good with numbers. Now in his eighth year of having T1D, he calculates that he’s undergone about 70,080 hours living with the... Read More

Rush

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Rush is attending JDRF Children’s Congress because he has high hopes for a cure. “This is a nation that makes great things happen.... Read More

Uma

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

An avid reader and talented artist (she especially loves drawing and painting), Uma was diagnosed with T1D just last year. Yet she and... Read More

Mary Morgan

Georgia, 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

“I’m learning that when life gives you lemons, you should make lemonade,” says Mary Morgan. “Sugar–free lemonade, that is!” Her sunny disposition gets... Read More

Robert (Bobby)

Georgia, 2015

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

For Bobby, a cure for T1D would mean one thing: Game time! “There is so much hope that someday I can just keep... Read More

David

Hawaii, 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

David is living proof that T1D technology is life–changing. He received his first CGM six months after his T1D diagnosis, and later was... Read More

Kennedy

Idaho, 2015

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Kennedy is a blue ribbon–winning member of 4–H, a swim team member and an aspiring gymnast. She is also an experienced advocate for... Read More

Cooper

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

While Cooper is grateful for his insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor, he’s holding out hope for a cure. “In some ways diabetes... Read More

Emily

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

All of the kids in Emily’s family live with T1D. Emily, her older sister and her younger brother have all been diagnosed with... Read More

Mason

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11 months

Mason believes T1D is nothing to shelter others from: “I don’t hide my disease,” he says. “I check my blood sugar in... Read More

Quinn

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Quinn loves the limelight. She has written a screenplay, “Super Duper Low,” about T1D, which was made into a movie that “teaches kids... Read More

Thomas

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Golf, track, wrestling, half–marathon running: Tommy tackles sports, and his T1D, head–on. “Since my diagnosis, I have jumped into managing my type 1... Read More

Aidan

Indiana, 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

With his younger brother recently diagnosed with T1D, Aidan is attending JDRF Children’s Congress with a renewed determination for a cure. “My family... Read More

John Christian

Indiana, 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Baseball, basketball, Boy Scouts, spelling bees: Christian certainly knows how to keep himself busy! Receiving his T1D diagnosis at age 9, he has... Read More

Sorin

Indiana, 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

“I am proud of the fact that I don’t let T1D define who I am,” says Sorin. Like all kids with T1D, Sorin... Read More

Blake

Iowa, 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Blake wants to give back, perhaps by becoming an endocrinologist someday. His first goal is to help others. “I dream to make a... Read More

Sofie

Iowa, 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

One of Sofie’s greatest achievements also represents two of her passions: public speaking and T1D advocacy. As a ninth–grader, she participated in an... Read More

Sierra

Kansas, 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

At just 4 years old, Sierra decided to stop eating once she realized that her meals went hand in hand with getting those... Read More

Joseph Drake

Kentucky, 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Balancing T1D can be difficult at any age, but especially for a busy teenager. Just ask Drake, who is captain of a top... Read More

Marina

Kentucky, 2015

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Marina isn’t sure what she wants to be when she grows up, but she does know that she wants to make a difference... Read More

Mary Rose

Kentucky, 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

“Spreading awareness of this disease is key to the discovery of a cure,” says Mary. She witnessed the power of awareness in action... Read More

Lydia

Louisiana, 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Lydia has high hopes for the future. “Right now, my future is exciting!” she says. She wants to become a preschool teacher someday.... Read More

Max

Louisiana, 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Despite T1D’s obstacles, Max says he’s thankful. “I feel very lucky that I get wonderful care from my doctors, and I believe that... Read More

Isabelle

Maine, 2015

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Isabelle is known for her contagious smile and positive attitude. Awarded the 2013 James Carpenter Courage Award, her school’s award, for her sunny... Read More

Mark

Maine, 2015

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Marky is attending JDRF Children’s Congress to help fill the “jar.” As his mom says, Marky recently asked her, “Is the jar almost... Read More

Chase

Maryland, 2015

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

This is Chase’s second year serving as a Youth Ambassador for JDRF with his sister, who also lives with T1D. The siblings have... Read More

Kiara

Maryland, 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Technology has changed Kiara’s life. Both Kiara and her brother Chase began using the Animas Ping Pump in 2013, which means the two... Read More

Jeffrey

Massachusetts, 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Jeffrey hasn’t always had T1D, but he has always had a love for hockey. He received his first pair of skates the day... Read More

Brandon

Michigan, 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Playing hockey, being outside, shoveling, watching hockey games, playing video games and playing basketball with friends are Brandon’s favorite activities. But battling T1D... Read More

Nasir

Michigan, 2015

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Not only is Nasir a gifted linguist—he taught himself the basics of Japanese and Spanish, through online tutorials by the time he was... Read More

Royal (Rollie)

Michigan, 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

T1D impacted Rollie’s life long before he discovered he had the disease—both his brother and his father had already been diagnosed with T1D.... Read More

Abbie

Minnesota, 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Abbie knows all about innovation. She’s starting a nonprofit, called PAb’s Packs, with her friend Pia, who was diagnosed with lymphoma. “We both... Read More

Dominik

Minnesota, 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Managing T1D has taught Dominik the values of dedication and commitment in all aspects of life. An avid ice hockey player, he reflects... Read More

Landen

Minnesota, 2015

Age: 4 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Thanks to his CGM and insulin pump, Landen attends regular preschool. Even with these advances in technology, Landen has been hospitalized seven times,... Read More

Drew

Mississippi, 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Considering becoming either a computer engineer for Nintendo or a history professor, Drew is already well on the way to aligning his passions... Read More

Cooper

Mississippi, 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Diagnosed just a few months after his twin brother Drew received word that he had T1D, Cooper already “knew what I was in... Read More

Amelia

Missouri, 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Despite T1D’s daily challenges, Amelia has a lot of gratitude. “Thankfully I was diagnosed after Frederick Banting discovered insulin. Thankfully I was diagnosed... Read More

Ethan

Missouri, 2015

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

“Last year at the JDRF family retreat, there was a speaker who said that I should ‘make diabetes the best thing that has... Read More

Shea

Missouri, 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Ever notice that ubiquitous JDRF sneaker magnet on a car bumper? You have Shea to thank for raising awareness, one car at a... Read More

Taite

Montana, 2015

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Taite doesn’t just speak for himself; he’s attending JDRF Children’s Congress to represent his little brother and all kids who have T1D. “Type... Read More

Trevor

Montana, 2015

Age: 5 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Swimming, basketball, soccer and pre–school: Trevor is one busy little boy. Along with his family, including his older brother Taite who also has... Read More

Molly

Nebraska, 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Like many kids who found out they had T1D at a very young age, Molly can’t recall the day she was diagnosed. Or,... Read More

Nolan

Nebraska, 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Nolan loves giving back: he works on service projects with his family and his church, helps package meals to send to the hungry,... Read More

Patsy

Nebraska, 2015

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Patsy was already familiar with T1D before she received her diagnosis. Her older brother Nolan, who is also attending JDRF Children’s Congress, was... Read More

Blake

Nevada, 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Blake’s passions are diverse: playing classic rock on his guitar (Metallica, the Beatles and Oingo Boingo are among his favorite bands), collecting new,... Read More

Juno

Nevada, 2015

Age: 5 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11 months

When Juno was 11 months old, she was the youngest person in the state of Nevada with T1D. Now, a confident kindergartener,... Read More

Kendall

Nevada, 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Honor roll student and JDRF Speakers Bureau member Kendall’s true passion is basketball. As a starter for his middle school team as well... Read More

Skye

New Hampshire, 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Skye has already reached a number of her goals. She’s an honor student, field hockey player and tae kwon do martial artist, and... Read More

Aaron

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

A founding member of the First Lego League, his school’s first–ever robotics team, Aaron is also a talented tennis player. He raises funds... Read More

John

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Jack is a powerhouse: He’s an accomplished actor (you might have caught him in the TV show Royal Pains), an avid tennis player,... Read More

Joshua

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

What do T1D and golf, Joshua’s favorite sport, have in common? More than you’d think. “Diabetes and golf are both games of numbers.... Read More

Lila

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

“Even though I don’t like having diabetes,” says Lila, “I have met some really good friends who I can talk to about diabetes.”... Read More

Sean

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Sean was diagnosed with T1D at only 2 years old, which, his mom says, forced him to “gain strength that he was too... Read More

Emma

New Mexico, 2015

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Emma is no stranger to sharing her story. The ten–year–old has already told her Congresswoman and Senator all about her T1D, and each... Read More

Analeigh

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Analeigh draws her strength from her swim team experience. Her signature event is a 20–lap race. “So many people are impressed when they... Read More

Ashley

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Award–winning advocate Ashley has earned honors from the Pediatric Diabetes Program at Winthrop University for her “tireless effort and support of children with... Read More

Ben

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Ben knows the power of pairs when it comes to managing T1D. He founded Ben’s Friends Buddy Program, affiliated with the JDRF New... Read More

Evan

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Evan’s made the front page! He was featured in the Wall Street Journal last year for his contributions to T1D technology. Evan himself... Read More

Jessica

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Jessica dives headfirst into all her activities: Model UN, crew and the Girls Learn International Club. A certified scuba diver, Jessica has been... Read More

Kaelyn

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

“My type 1 diabetes does not stop me from doing anything,” declares Kaelyn. “I know, because Mom and Dad tell me that I... Read More

Mathias

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Mathias and his sister founded Sweet Siblings (sweetsiblings.org), a site available in English and Spanish that helps newly diagnosed kids and teens and... Read More

Rowan

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Although Rowan wasn’t diagnosed until recently, she has been involved with JDRF from the very beginning. Her older brother learned that he had... Read More

Ryan

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 16

A natural leader, Ryan is a senior cadet in a JROTC program with the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps, where he oversees... Read More

Zacharey

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

“I have not stopped doing the things I love or stopped living since my diagnosis,” proudly states Zack. “It has motivated me to... Read More

Andrew

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Andrew’s participation in JDRF Children’s Congress isn’t his first foray into politics. He has served as both vice president and president of his... Read More

Rachel

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

“I’ve appreciated my life, both the good and bad, so much more as a chronically ill young person than I ever could have... Read More

Stella

Age: 4 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Stella was diagnosed with T1D just a few days after her third birthday. As her mom explains, “JDRF is her advocate, as well... Read More

Stephen

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

“I do believe that if we continue to work together,” says Stephen, “one day diabetes will no longer exist. I try every day... Read More

Trinity

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Trinity doesn’t just wish for a cure, she works for it. For the last four years, she has asked her friends to bring... Read More

Turner

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

“The marathon JDRF has been running is closing in on the finish line,” says Turner, “but every extra donation can only succeed in... Read More

Annelise

North Dakota, 2015

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Annelise’s enthusiasm is downright contagious. “A cure would affect my life and my family’s lives so much!” she says. “I’ve gotten 6,376 shots... Read More

Anna

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Anna stays active with tennis, track and ski racing. Her proudest accomplishments include placing second in a half marathon, qualifying for the New... Read More

Cameron

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

The ball’s in Cameron’s court! An accomplished tennis player, Cameron plays twice a week, and competes on a travel tennis team. He also... Read More

Carter

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Carter is the third member of his family to have T1D; his father and grandfather were both diagnosed with the disease, too. Luckily,... Read More

Isabella

Age: 4 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Isabella is a triplet, but she’s also entirely one of a kind. The only one in her family with T1D, Isabella’s family says... Read More

Jackson

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Jackson already has plenty of experience spreading the word about T1D awareness. He has recently served as Northwest Ohio’s Youth Ambassador, as well... Read More

Connor

Oklahoma, 2015

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Connor claims that he’s just an average kid, who loves Legos and Minecraft. But he’s actually an extraordinary boy. A basketball and soccer... Read More

Emma

Oklahoma, 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Dancing, wakeboarding, tubing and swimming keep Emma busy. She loves ballet and jazz (she takes classes twice a week), and in the summer... Read More

Annika

Oregon, 2015

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... Read More

Ewan

Oregon, 2015

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Ewan knows firsthand just how much technology can help a kid with T1D. He has an insulin pump, and recently started using a... Read More

Henry

Oregon, 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Summiting Mount St. Helens and managing T1D are two of Henry’s coolest achievements. But, as Henry explains, there are plenty more. “Some of... Read More

Ethan

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Ethan has been supporting JDRF both on the field and from the sidelines. When his dad ran the New York City Marathon on... Read More

Evan

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

“With my family and friends helping me to get through it, I have made it!” says Evan of his life post–diagnosis. “It has... Read More

Julia

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Julia arrives at JDRF Children’s Congress with a fire in her belly. “I will not simply stand back and watch other people try... Read More

Kathryn

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Kathryn loves writing, babysitting, singing and acting; and has performed in both Cats and The Music Man. “I am proud of the fact... Read More

Madyson

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Madyson is hopeful for what evolving technology can do for T1D. After her diagnosis, she recalls, “I was giving myself shots via insulin... Read More

Jordan

Rhode Island, 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

“I am one person out of the millions of others in this country, but I have learned that one voice can make a... Read More

Anna

South Carolina, 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Type 1 diabetes has influenced Anna’s career dreams. “Before I was diagnosed with type I diabetes, I wanted to be a teacher,” she... Read More

Katherine

South Carolina, 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Katie and her family, along with other local families, instituted JDRF Walks in their community of Hilton Head in 2013. “It has paid... Read More

Madeline

South Dakota, 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Madeline is singing her heart out on behalf of T1D awareness. The talented crooner has performed the national anthem each year for the... Read More

Evie

Tennessee, 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Evie isn’t attending JDRF Children’s Congress just for herself; she’s here to advocate for her younger brother Daniel, too. Daniel was born with... Read More

Owen

Tennessee, 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

As Owen puts it, “My life has truly been shaped by diabetes but not controlled by [it]. … I enjoy getting involved in... Read More

Sherman

Tennessee, 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

DJ is a seasoned public speaker who has addressed crowds at two JDRF Walk events and at Walk meetings, participated in five JDRF... Read More

Berkeley

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

In addition to volunteering with her local JDRF office and raising an impressive $50,000 through JDRF Walks, Berkeley worked as a teen counselor... Read More

Cheney

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Thrill–seeking Cheney loves riding WaveRunners (“I think she hit 48 mph last summer on a crystal–smooth Geneva Lake in Wisconsin,” says her dad,... Read More

Elizabeth

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Elizabeth doesn’t let T1D slow her down one bit! She is an avid and competitive dancer who loves performing jazz, ballet, tap, contemporary—and... Read More

Grant

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Grant is translating his love of languages into impressive advocacy work. As a two–year National Spanish Exam gold medalist and secretary of his... Read More

Intisar

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Intisar believes it takes a village to improve life with T1D. “I strongly believe that it takes a community and, indeed, the nation... Read More

Jacquelyn

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Tumbling, tennis and T1D: Jacquelyn does it all. Diagnosed as a toddler, Jacquelyn has a twin sister who also lives with the disease.... Read More

Jillian

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Jillian was diagnosed with T1D years after her identical twin sister Jacquelyn discovered she had the disease. Together, Jillian and her family raise... Read More

Katherine

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

“From low blood sugars to high blood sugars, and illness to excitement, and so many other things, I had to just keep my... Read More

Kathryn

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Kathryn is passionate about the up–and–coming advances in T1D technology. “New technology would allow for a lot more freedom, something I was never... Read More

Leah

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Tennis player, artist, singer, honor roll student and video game expert are just a few ways to describe Leah. She also lives with... Read More

Will

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 15

Will has a mind for business. He recently attended a Cornell University summer business program, and earned a spot in the top 5... Read More

Camryn

Utah, 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Camryn and her older sister Katherine share more than their T1D diagnoses; the sisters have also embarked on a crusade to advance T1D... Read More

Emily

Utah, 2015

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Emily’s photography has already earned accolades—and it has also highlighted life with T1D. Emily shot a photo showcasing “30 days of diabetes supplies... Read More

Emma

Vermont, 2015

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Emma has a lot to be proud of: She loves going to school, dancing competitively and advocating for T1D awareness. But she says... Read More

Alexis

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

“I absolutely love telling people my story,” says Alexis. And what a story it is: Diagnosed at age 13, she has already endured... Read More

Anna

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Anna knows firsthand what it’s like to be part of a movement: Not only has she delivered the keynote address at the JDRF... Read More

Catherine

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

When Catherine received her first pump in second grade, she told friends “it was a cool, secret gadget that only the best children... Read More

Peter

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

En garde, T1D! Peter, an award–winning fencer, is now rallying his defenses against the disease. Diagnosed just last year, Peter plans to return... Read More

Brynn

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Living with T1D for Brynn is a family affair: Both her father and her older sister also have the disease. Spreading awareness is... Read More

Caroline

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Caroline is involved in her community as a tutor for second graders, a volunteer at a senior residence and through her work with... Read More

Hannah

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Hannah overcame the initial impact of being diagnosed with T1D to develop an impressive advocacy effort. She recalls “I was shocked at first,... Read More

Jackson

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Jackson has lived with T1D for a decade now and, today, he wants one thing: freedom. “I want freedom to be a kid... Read More

Makaila

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Makaila is very mindful of the burdens of T1D—her father has the disease and she was diagnosed at just 16 months old.... Read More

Paige

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

“I find that when I am creating, I feel most comfortable,” says Paige. Drawing, painting, and writing songs, skits and plays are just... Read More

Noelle

West Virginia, 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7 months

Noelle is an active athlete, choir member and a fervent advocate. Her experience on a competitive travel soccer team has taught her... Read More

Cara

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Cara has gold–medal goals. As a competitive figure skater and national silver medalist skater with a synchronized skating team, she also knows a... Read More

Jack

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Jack loves his life. His many favorite hobbies include cooking, eating, skiing, surfing, soccer, traveling and reading. And he has the same zest... Read More

Keira

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Keira loves cooking, dance and baking. In fact, she’d like to own her own bakery when she grows up. In the meantime, she... Read More

Sophia

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Sophia is one passionate proponent of the cause. “I’ve been a part of JDRF’s Promise to Remember Me Campaign for four years in... Read More

Stella

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

“I’m proud of myself because anything I set my mind to, I accomplish,” proudly says Stella. Take biking and unicycling, for instance. “I... Read More

Bryce

Wyoming, 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Bryce’s dreams are taking flight. As a member of Civil Air Patrol, a nonprofit associated with the U.S. Air Force that helps with... Read More

Shelby

Wyoming, 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Shelby was diagnosed with T1D when she was five, but she’s long been familiar with T1D. Her grandmother and father have the disease,... Read More

Daan

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

When Daan’s not spreading awareness about T1D, he enjoys tennis, skateboarding, gaming, drawing and making videos. After a scary allergic reaction to a... Read More

Emma

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Emma—or Emmz as her friends call her—has been a powerhouse for promoting T1D awareness since she was first diagnosed at age 7. She... Read More

Gal

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Gal enjoys riding horses, playing basketball and sharing her experience with T1D. When she was diagnosed, she worried what her friends would think,... Read More

Jack

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

After his first JDRF Walk, Jack served as a JDRF Walk Ambassador and created “Team Jack of Hearts,” the largest JDRF Walk team... Read More

Kamilla

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Kamilla loves dancing, acting and hanging out with her best friend Johanna, who makes her forget all about diabetes. To help advance T1D... Read More

Millie

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Ever creative, Millie participates in choir and drama—and also channels her creativity into building awareness for T1D. She organized a “Pingathon” at her... Read More

Caleb

Alabama, 2013

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

As a certified scuba diver who has a third-degree black belt in tae kwon do, Caleb is simply too active to sit around... Read More

Cameron

Alabama, 2013

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Cameron must have broken some records. He has spoken to Alabama lawmakers about T1D research funding since he was just four, and he... Read More

Tylar

Alaska, 2013

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Tylar’s lifelong desire was always to join the military. Even though his diagnosis with T1D last year means that his first dream may... Read More

Adalyne

Arizona, 2013

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Adalyne, who manages both T1D and celiac disease, has a lot on her mind. “A cure would mean my brain could think about... Read More

Mary Kate

Arizona, 2013

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Mary Kate gets by with a little help from her friends. “I cannot tell you how grateful I am to have such wonderful... Read More

Mia

Arizona, 2013

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Mia remembers her first JDRF Walk. “The first year, I was only five, and I thought that because we did the Walk and... Read More

Jonathan

Arkansas, 2013

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Jonathan understands how closely funding research and finding a cure are intertwined. “We need to find a way to prevent type 1 diabetes... Read More

Miles

Arkansas, 2013

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

JDRF has taken Miles to new heights. After a JDRF rock-climbing event, Miles began climbing competitively, and even earned a high ranking in... Read More

Allison

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

T1D has taken Allison across the globe. In 2010, she traveled to Switzerland as part of the first U.S. team to compete in... Read More

Andrew

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Andrew knows how to spread the word about T1D. “I’m not shy about my T1D or the tools I use to manage it,... Read More

Austin

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Austin is determined to find a cure for T1D and hopes a career in medicine or electrical engineering will one day help him... Read More

Brandon

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 14

Brandon shows up every day—literally. This honors student has never missed a day of school or arrived late for class. He shows up... Read More

Cindy

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Imagine a world without T1D, asks Cindy. “There would be no more little kids crying as their parents try to coax them into... Read More

Eileen

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Eileen has grand aspirations—when she grows up, she’d like to become president of the United States, or a police officer. For now, though,... Read More

Hannah

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Hannah hopes that through her lengthy experience with T1D, she can be a role model to younger kids at Children’s Congress. “The challenge... Read More

Jonah

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Jonah knows that it is what’s on the inside that matters when it comes to T1D. “People look at me and they think... Read More

Jonah

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Jonah has learned a lot about T1D since his diagnosis, and he helps educate his classmates and his community. In fact, one of... Read More

Julianna

Age: 5 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Julianna and her family have come through many challenges. When Julianna was diagnosed, her father, Shiloh, an Army major and Blackhawk Pilot, decided... Read More

Ryan

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Modern-day cowboy Ryan is riding for a cure. This rodeo finalist practices three to four times daily and also loves camping, swimming, and... Read More

Sophia

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Sophia is only six, but she’s growing up fast. Diagnosed with T1D one year ago, she has learned to deal gracefully with seven... Read More

Will

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Will’s story is both unique and universal. After being rushed to the hospital with a blood-glucose level of 960—plus three days of sickness,... Read More

Willa

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Willa has seen the future! Just one week after her T1D diagnosis, she joined the Metabolic Control Study at Stanford University, where she... Read More

Dillon

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Dillon imagines a world without T1D. “A cure would allow for parents to rest easier when their child steps on the field, goes... Read More

Landry

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Landry believes T1D should be the last thing on kids’ minds. “Kids should only have to worry about doing well in school, being... Read More

Sam

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Sam can relate to other kids with T1D who excel at school, love sports, and enjoy life—but who don’t always feel exactly “normal.”... Read More

Virginia

District of Columbia, 2013

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Though Virginia has had T1D for most of her life, it’s thinking about newly diagnosed children that really discourages—and inspires—her work. “So many... Read More

Bobby

Connecticut, 2013

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9 months

T1D is one of many health obstacles Bobby lives with every day. Diagnosed with autism and dyspraxia in addition to his T1D,... Read More

Harrison

Connecticut, 2013

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Harrison sheds light on T1D—one lantern at a time. Through his organization T-1 Luminary Enlightenment, he has distributed more than 50,000 luminary bags,... Read More

Sophie

Connecticut, 2013

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11 months

When she’s not singing the national anthem at the Jonas Brothers’ Kickball Game or raising more than $100,000 (to date) for her... Read More

Craig

Delaware, 2013

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Part of what makes Craig and his T1D advocacy unique is his personal philosophy. “I try to be a good person to others,... Read More

Cecilia

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Cecilia finds the silver lining in having T1D. “Type 1 diabetes is not easy to live with. It is very frustrating and aggravating.... Read More

Alexis

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

“Imagine a toddler who loves to dance, sing, and bother her big sister.” That little girl was Alexis, who also grew up learning... Read More

Cerriah

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Cerriah’s family has one unfortunate legacy: Cerriah, her younger sister (Alexis), father, grandfather, and three uncles all have T1D. “I am living proof... Read More

Emmabella

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Emmabella has many interests, and she gives 110 percent effort to every one of them. She has received awards for public speaking, artwork,... Read More

Michael

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Michael knows about change—he’s an avid coin collector who can tell you all about the Mercury dime, the Indian Head penny, and the... Read More

Nicole

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Nicole was diagnosed just two years ago, but in those two years, she has learned—and contributed—a great deal. “Being diagnosed has changed my... Read More

Rachel

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Rachel understands not only the difficulties of managing T1D, but also the challenges of finding a cure for it. Yet she also has... Read More

Samantha

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Samantha has high hopes for others kids who, like her, struggle with T1D’s daily impact. “I want children to feel safe when they... Read More

Walker

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

The middle child of five children, Walker’s the literal epicenter of his family. He enjoys spending free time watching movies, playing video games,... Read More

Mary Grace

Georgia, 2013

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Mary Grace is proud of her service as a role model for other kids—those who have T1D and those who do not. Inspired... Read More

Taylor

Georgia, 2013

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Diagnosed with T1D just three weeks after her first birthday, Taylor has scarcely known a life without site changes and syringes, highs and... Read More

Taylor

Hawaii, 2013

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

“If you talk with my friends and family about how I was before I was diagnosed with T1D, they will tell you that... Read More

Carson

Idaho, 2013

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

For Carson, T1D is the mother of invention! His creation, the Swipe and Wipe, a blood-sugar test strip with an alcohol- and dry-pad... Read More

Catherine

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Catherine was only two years old when she diagnosed herself. Her older sister Elizabeth had just been diagnosed with T1D, and Catherine wanted... Read More

Colin

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Colin dreams of a world without T1D. He hopes to become an inventor or engineer to find a way to make living with... Read More

Elizabeth

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Elizabeth has taken great leaps toward her dream of becoming a doctor. She learned about glucose stimulation as an intern in the Islet... Read More

Emily

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

There’s one essential component that keeps Emily going despite the obstacles she faces managing her T1D. It’s simple: “Hope for the future, near... Read More

Klaire

Age: 4 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Klaire may be young, but she has a big heart. A helper by nature, Klaire loves to help take care of little babies—she... Read More

Morgan

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

At only seven years old, Morgan has told her family that she “wants to do whatever it takes to help and make a... Read More

Claire

Indiana, 2013

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

As the only student at her school coping with T1D, Claire seems to live every day in the limelight. “Awareness is a big... Read More

Gwen

Indiana, 2013

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Gwen has been voicing her thoughts about life with T1D since the early days of her diagnosis. At just five years old, she... Read More

Rebecca

Indiana, 2013

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

When Rebecca was diagnosed with T1D at age two, her physician said that a cure for the disease would likely be found within... Read More

James

Iowa, 2013

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

James is one brave nine-year-old boy. He has already participated in various TrialNet trials through the Children’s Hospital of the University of Iowa... Read More

Sarah

Iowa, 2013

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Sarah has a lot of experience explaining T1D—to her friends, her schoolmates, her teachers, even members of her family. She even developed a... Read More

Anna

Kansas, 2013

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

At 12 years old, Anna is already a seasoned veteran of the Washington, D.C., scene. She and her family have discussed T1D with... Read More

Deven

Kentucky, 2013

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Deven is a girl of many talents. When she’s not playing the flute, singing in chorus, drawing, or spiking a volleyball, she is... Read More

Jack

Kentucky, 2013

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Jack, an accomplished Eagle Scout, hasn’t stopped since receiving his T1D diagnosis. He has hiked Arches National Park, gone whitewater rafting on the... Read More

Jaden

Kentucky, 2013

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Jaden knows a lot about T1D research. She dedicated herself to learning as much as she would about it in hopes that it... Read More

Bryan

Louisiana, 2013

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Bryan has soared above many challenges. After his diagnosis with T1D at age two, Bryan’s mother, who was deaf, couldn’t manage his disease.... Read More

Henry

Louisiana, 2013

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Henry knows the timeline of his T1D by heart. Two months before his 13th birthday, he received his diagnosis. Within three months, he... Read More

Quinn

Maine, 2013

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

At Children’s Congress, Quinn wants to lend his voice to those kids who haven’t found their own yet. He also wants to share... Read More

Carlos

Maryland, 2013

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

One of Carlos’ greatest tools for living with T1D is gratitude. “For me, every breath, every smile, every time I hold open a... Read More

Tacy

Maryland, 2013

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Tacy is going global! Organizing JDRF Walks from England to Germany, this advocate and her brother both have T1D. “I am very open... Read More

Finn

Massachusetts, 2013

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Finn’s philosophy is simple but profound. “Type 1 diabetes is like a gigantic speed bump. It slows you down, but with the right... Read More

Gilad

Massachusetts, 2013

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Gilad is turning his passions into progress. As a committed cyclist, he organized a 50-mile charity ride benefiting T1D research. A talented student,... Read More

Andrew

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

When Andrew’s mom asked him if he would like to come to Children’s Congress to speak with legislators about the need for a... Read More

Bethany

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Bethany is passionate about theater, music, and—of course—T1D research. “We need to have scientists and doctors researching type 1 diabetes, looking for new... Read More

Steven

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

“Have you ever thought about what it would be like to perform the job of an internal organ?” asks Steven. “Not only do... Read More

Tristin

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

As an artist whose work has been shown at The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, an advocate with organizations throughout the T1D community, and... Read More

Anna

Minnesota, 2013

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Diagnosed less than a year after her older sister (Emma), Anna was only two years old when her T1D was discovered and only... Read More

Emma

Minnesota, 2013

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Just 10 months after Emma was diagnosed with T1D, her younger sister, Anna, was diagnosed as well. As young children, both struggled with... Read More

Catrina

Mississippi, 2013

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

As a blogger, JDRF ambassador, and dedicated T1D advocate, Catrina is a girl on a mission. “Because type 1 diabetes affects every moment... Read More

Adam

Missouri, 2013

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Adam’s grandfather, who was diagnosed with T1D as a teenager and suffered many complications, passed away several years ago. At first, this legacy... Read More

Zachary

Missouri, 2013

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

November 30, 2007, is a day Zachary can’t seem to forget. It was the day he learned he had T1D. These days, though,... Read More

Finley

Montana, 2013

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Like many little girls, Finley loves dancing—ballet and tap dancing are her two favorites—painting and coloring, and hanging out with her older brother.... Read More

William

Montana, 2013

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11 months

William would love a cure for his T1D, but his hopes for this year’s Children’s Congress are for others who suffer. “I... Read More

Christina

Nebraska, 2013

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

As a child, Christina was worried about “catching” T1D. When she developed the (noncontagious) disease at 11, she realized “‘Catching’ type 1 diabetes... Read More

Trevin

Nebraska, 2013

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Trevin’s enthusiasm for life, and a cure, is contagious. “It is one of my hopes and dreams that in my lifetime, a cure... Read More

Grant

Nevada, 2013

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Grant discusses his goals in his own words, but his sentiments are shared by everyone at Children’s Congress. “I hope to help more... Read More

Matthew

Nevada, 2013

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Though Matthew has learned to manage his T1D, he still worries about others—especially his young cousins, who, thankfully, don’t currently have the disease.... Read More

Reed

Nevada, 2013

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Reed wants to rewrite the story of T1D—literally. As an aspiring author, Reed blogs about the highs and lows of both blood-sugar levels... Read More

Caroline

New Hampshire, 2013

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Caroline admits to wearing her heart—and her pump—on her sleeve. “This is one of the main reasons I wear my pump on the... Read More

Amber

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Amber just can’t hide her enthusiasm for T1D researchers and their progress toward a cure. “If they’re close to a cure, they should... Read More

Fiona

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Fiona is a fighter—and a fast learner. Within a month of her T1D diagnosis at age seven, she was administering her insulin shots... Read More

Lyndsey

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10 months

A gifted equestrian who is currently working on a novel, Lyndsey harbors dreams of becoming a veterinarian and a writer someday—so that... Read More

Myles

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11 months

Myles is committed to serving his community. As the recipient of multiple service awards, it’s no surprise that his hope for a... Read More

Rachel

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

As an accomplished pianist and T1D advocate, Rachel hits all the right notes. “I really believe that one day we will find a... Read More

Fallon

New Mexico, 2013

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Fallon’s enthusiastic spirit is clear to all who hear her story. This varsity soccer player remains active and upbeat. “Type 1 diabetes changed... Read More

Angel

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

As a football player and advocate for T1D, depression, and bullying awareness, Angel is tackling big challenges. “Being a delegate is important to... Read More

Haley

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Haley understands the devastation T1D can wreak on families, yet uses it as motivation for her advocacy. Her older sister Karissa also has... Read More

Hana

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Hana wants to raise awareness and find a cure for T1D, so that the questions—and the frustrations—can stop. “When we went to the... Read More

Joshua

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Joshua remembers one of the early battles after his T1D diagnosis. He and his parents wanted a certain type of pump, but their... Read More

Max

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Max finds unexpected creativity in his T1D. “I realized I could use living with this disease as a source of inspiration.” His documentary,... Read More

Melissa

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Melissa has tirelessly raised more than $20,000 for JDRF through bake sales and lemonade stands, but she comes to Children’s Congress realizing that... Read More

Patrick

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Patrick dreams about how a cure for his disease could transform daily life for him and other children coping with T1D. “I pray... Read More

Sydney

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Sydney is the only kid at her school with T1D, but because of her efforts, her classmates and teachers know a great deal... Read More

Will

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Will loves to try new things—he enjoys bowling, golf, ice skating, fishing, coin collecting, and video games, to name a few. But if... Read More

Anya

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Pax means “peace” in Latin, and that’s just what Anya’s service dog, Pax, a Red Merle Australian shepherd, brings her. The two go... Read More

Carr

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Every year, Carr and his family do everything they can to support T1D research by forming JDRF Walk teams, attending Galas, and advocating... Read More

Chandler

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Chandler wants to share her thanks for all those who have championed the Special Diabetes Program (SDP). “Their support changes my life for... Read More

Ian

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Ian lives by the advice his parents shared upon his T1D diagnosis. “My mom and dad told me, ‘You can do whatever you... Read More

Joel

Age: 5 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Joel was diagnosed at just 22 months. In the early days of his disease, Joel’s parents found it difficult to regulate his blood-sugar... Read More

T.J.

North Dakota, 2013

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Having T1D hasn’t been child’s play for TJ and his two older sisters, who all have the disease. But thanks to research and... Read More

Taya

North Dakota, 2013

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Growing up, Taya shared more than the toys and snacks that most kids split with their siblings. Taya, her brother, and her sister... Read More

Tylie

North Dakota, 2013

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Tylie was the first of her siblings to receive a T1D diagnosis. Of the four kids in her family, three have the disease... Read More

Abbey

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Living with T1D may keep Abbey on her toes, but nothing can stop this performing powerhouse from taking the stage. Just five days... Read More

Avery

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Diagnosed with T1D weeks after her third birthday, Avery can’t remember life without T1D. But the disease hasn’t stopped this ambitious grade-schooler from... Read More

Jack

Age: 4 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11 months

Jack was diagnosed with T1D at just 11 months, after his history of weight loss, ear infections, and difficulty sleeping led his... Read More

Jack

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Jack wants to assure other kids at Children’s Congress that it’s perfectly normal to feel different. “If there were a cure, the kids... Read More

Olivia

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

While in the hospital after her T1D diagnosis, Olivia experienced a great support system that helped her learn about the changes T1D was... Read More

Jack

Oklahoma, 2013

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Jack is known for his sunny outlook. In fact, his nickname is Happy Jack. “Luckily, all my friends, teachers, coaches, and family agreed... Read More

Shervin

Oklahoma, 2013

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

When Shervin received his T1D diagnosis, he joined his dad and brother in their fight against the disease. “Right now, ‘normal’ for my... Read More

Adli

Oregon, 2013

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Though Adli can’t remember life before her T1D diagnosis, this budding young dancer and artist “loves to make people laugh and smile,” according... Read More

Amelia

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Amelia hopes to outrun T1D someday. Every year, she holds a “Diabetes Dash”—she invites people to run, walk, bike, scooter, or Rollerblade around... Read More

Brett

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Brett believes that T1D is more than a disease—it’s an opportunity. “I’m not angry; everyone has something, and my something is called T1D.”... Read More

Caroline

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Type 1 diabetes came out of nowhere for Caroline. She had no symptoms and no family history of the disease prior to entering... Read More

Hannah

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Hannah, who dreams of becoming a pediatric endocrinologist, wants to see a cure for those kids who haven’t yet been diagnosed with T1D.... Read More

Mikaelie

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Mikaelie is deeply familiar with the ups and downs of having T1D. “Every day of my life seems completely different from the day... Read More

Matt

Rhode Island, 2013

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

When life handed him lemons, Matthew didn’t just make lemonade—he started his T1D advocacy! Sweet Rush Lemonade Stand, founded by Matthew and his... Read More

Ethan

South Carolina, 2013

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Ethan’s outreach involves speaking to groups, large and small, about his T1D—and he is a gifted speaker. “When you live every day with... Read More

Hannah

South Carolina, 2013

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Hannah dispels rumors surrounding T1D. “It’s not my fault that my body can’t process sugar correctly to fuel my body. Other than my... Read More

Justin

South Carolina, 2013

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Justin doesn’t just dream about a life without T1D, but fantasizing does happen to be a part of his awareness efforts. Justin started... Read More

Jack

South Dakota, 2013

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

By the time Jack was diagnosed with T1D one Thanksgiving Day, he already knew all about blood-glucose monitoring and carb counting. His older... Read More

Ahmed

Tennessee, 2013

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

As the son of two doctors, Ahmed knows that research has ripple effects—even on those who don’t have T1D. “Finding a cure is... Read More

Garrett

Tennessee, 2013

Age: 5 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

T1D knows no age limits. Garrett Allen was diagnosed at age one, having spent a fraught night in the neonatal intensive care unit... Read More

Kate

Tennessee, 2013

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Kate has one fail-proof strategy for dealing with T1D: optimism. “I know that it is easy to get discouraged about having type 1... Read More

Charlie

Age: 5 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10 months

Charlie wants to be a doctor, artist, fireman, truck driver, and engineer when he grows up. Today, this curious five-year-old has time... Read More

Charlsie

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Charlsie is used to overcoming obstacles that would daunt most others. Though she is a congenital amputee— she was born without a right... Read More

Grant

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Grant wants to share the message of hope at Children’s Congress that he’s delivered in his speeches at JDRF Walk kickoff events, and... Read More

Kendall

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Kendall has already gotten a jump start on her ambition to become a Broadway star or movie actress. She has appeared in TV... Read More

Kevin

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Talented athlete Kevin isn’t the only player on his All Star baseball team who has T1D. He and a teammate check their blood... Read More

Nadia

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Nadia has become an inspiration to those around her since her diagnosis at age six. Her mom, Jennifer, says, “It is so hard... Read More

Rachel

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

One of the most challenging—but also most satisfying—aspects of Rachel’s role as an ambassador with JDRF is speaking with newly diagnosed children and... Read More

Randi

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 14

Her diagnosis with T1D ended Randi’s ambition of joining the Air Force, but in its place, another dream has taken root: finding a... Read More

Alex

Utah, 2013

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

When it comes to Alex’s T1D, the gloves are off. As this talented athlete puts it, “I am determined not to let this... Read More

Jake

Utah, 2013

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Jake Merkley is a budding rocket scientist and astronaut. He loves launching rockets, watching videos of the space shuttle, and learning everything he... Read More

Will

Utah, 2013

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10 months

Will, an award-winning storyteller, has one tale to tell at this year’s Children’s Congress. “I hope to tell my story about how... Read More

Victoria

Vermont, 2013

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Victoria’s mom, Mary, calls her daughter “a great role model for not letting type 1 diabetes get in the way of doing anything.”... Read More

Alexander

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Alexander’s T1D hit a nerve when he wasn’t allowed to take a driver’s learning permit test last year because of his insulin use.... Read More

Bridgette

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Bridgette is a born entertainer—she loves singing and dancing, and has even performed at a JDRF Gala. Both Bridgette and her older brother... Read More

Elliot

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

For Elliot, a cure would mean extra culinary—and cultural—benefits. “A cure for type 1 diabetes for an Asian-American like me would mean that... Read More

Emmie

Age: 4 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Emmie hasn’t decided what she wants to be when she grows up, but she has narrowed down her choices. “I want to be... Read More

Kamryn

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Kamryn believes there’s a silver lining to T1D and wants to help the world to see it. “I want to relay how research... Read More

Matthew

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

This JDRF ambassador jumped into volunteering at the very beginning. Weeks after his diagnosis with T1D, he joined his first JDRF Walk. Because... Read More

Blythe

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Blythe is intimately familiar with the challenges of being a teen with T1D. At age 15, after almost a decade living with the... Read More

Erica

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Erica was a T1D advocate even before she received her own diagnosis. As a child, she participated in a JDRF Walk with her... Read More

Henry

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Henry has overcome great hurdles in his struggle with T1D. Ranked second in the country in sprint kayaking for his age/standing, Henry had... Read More

Nicole

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Like many kids with T1D, Nicole didn’t have a history of the disease in her family. Her diagnosis came as a shock, but... Read More

Adam

West Virginia, 2013

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

With a unique outlook on his disease, Adam shares his T1D experience with all who will listen. “Being outgoing is my way of... Read More

Molly

West Virginia, 2013

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Molly’s favorite place to be is in the kitchen, cooking and baking, and one day, she hopes to be a professional chef. But... Read More

Kimmy

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Next time you flip on the TV, open the newspaper, or turn on the radio, you might just encounter Kimberly. Through her TV,... Read More

Shannon

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11 months

Softball, school plays, and student government. Acting, choir, and mystery books. Shannon’s life is bursting with activity, despite her T1D. “I still... Read More

Shelby

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Ask Shelby for her greatest accomplishment, and the answer is both simple and poignant: “Living successfully with T1D.” Both she and her dad... Read More

Wyatt

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

An aspiring politician, Wyatt is looking to make a difference. As a student council representative, he personally asked the mayor of Green Bay,... Read More

Calvin

Wyoming, 2013

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Calvin has a very clear memory of October 28, 2009—the day he was diagnosed with T1D. He got to play video games, and... Read More

Anders

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Anders, a Denmark native who was diagnosed as a baby, can’t remember a life without T1D—but that doesn’t stop him from imagining one.... Read More

George

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

George has been proactive since the early days of his diagnosis. Just eight at the time, he quickly went online and learned all... Read More

Maya

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Maya’s bringing her T1D advocacy to the United States. As a poster child for JDRF in her home country of Israel, she has... Read More

Megan

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

October 16, 2008, was a bittersweet day for Megan. “The day I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes was the day I decided... Read More

Nikki

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Nikki, a native of the Netherlands, was diagnosed just over three years ago. Today, she looks forward to a cure “for now, but... Read More

Samuel