Age: 16
Age at 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 thriving. “I really needed someone with T1D to support me, not just my friends and family. Because of this, I want to be that person for as many people as I can.” Every year on her diaversary, Amanda goes to the hospital and connects with newly diagnosed kids, which she says gives her the chance to help others and make the most of living with T1D. She paints canvases with the word “BRAVE” and newly diagnosed patients select one to take home. She is a JDRF Youth Ambassador, a Youth Advocacy Leader, and very involved in JDRF One Walk, fundraising through her team, “Amanda’s Army.”

Outside of school and supporting other members of the T1D community, Amanda enjoys playing tennis, running cross country, traveling, and participating in her church’s youth group.