Age: 14
Age at Diagnosis: 7

Kellen is an actor, singer, and dancer. He has performed in many local plays and recently got a small part in a TV movie! He’s also in a troupe of actors who put on performances that highlight their disabilities—when Kellen is on stage, his insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor are proudly showing. It’s no surprise he wants to be on Broadway when he’s older. 

Kellen started a social media blog, “From Kellen’s View” right after his diagnosis to help his classmates and teachers understand life with T1D. His family, including his older brother who was diagnosed just a few days after Kellen, is very involved in JDRF One Walks and Galas—they also mentor newly diagnosed families and Kellen has met with Members of Congress to advocate for research funding. He passionately says, “I want to help be their voice and find a cure for all of us.”

“Tucson teens with Type 1 Diabetes return home after raising awareness in Washington D.C. through JDRF Children’s Congress,” KOLD 13, July 20, 2023