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 in Performing Arts. Demi’s T1D diagnosis resulted from damage to her pancreas during chemotherapy for severe combined immunodeficiency syndrome (SCID). She says, “I always try to remain positive in the belief that I was given a second chance at life and I have to do something with it.” Demi started ‘Bears for Hope’ to encourage everyone with T1D to believe in themselves and their dreams. She donates more than 1,000 stuffed animals yearly—with personalized notes of encouragement—to a children’s hospital. She also takes part in JDRF One Walk with her friends and family every year. “Children are the future of this country. Our health and well-being should be a priority.”