Age: 16
Age at 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 well as the One Act club, and while she isn’t positive about what she’d like to do once she’s older, she is interested in exploring a career in cosmetic chemistry. Ava’s biggest dream for the future is “a life without T1D, or at least a way for scientists to figure out how to make treatments easy and affordable for all.”

Since Ava’s diagnosis, Ava and her family have worked hard to raise awareness around T1D, as well as funds for T1D research. Ava has participated in clinical trials, JDRF One Walk events, outreach programs and support groups, and has also served as a JDRF Youth Ambassador. Ava was even a moderator for a national Youth Ambassador teen meet up last year!

“JDRF Children’s Congress explains impact of Type 1 Diabetes,” WTNH News 8, June 29, 2023