Kelsey remembers the sunny day when, in 45 minutes, she went from being a healthy nine-year-old to a child with type 1. She hoped no other child would have to experience that tough diagnosis, but three years later, her younger sister did.


Kelsey remembers the sunny day when, in 45 minutes, she went from being a healthy nine-year-old to a child with type 1. She hoped no other child would have to experience that tough diagnosis, but three years later, her younger sister did. Now Kelsey sets a strong example for anyone to follow, especially her little sister. In her words, "Acceptance and surrender are two different things. I will accept my diabetes, but I won't surrender to it." Kelsey has participated in the Promise to Remember Me Campaign, and encourages Congress to set an example of solidarity for the world and its future leaders. Kelsey has won two speech contests and was invited to attend a leadership forum in Washington, D.C. She enjoys lacrosse, guitar, volunteering, and teaching swim lessons. Kelsey hopes to earn a degree in political science and international affairs, and to help people by working with the government.

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JDRF is the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. Our strength lies in our exclusive focus and singular influence on the worldwide effort to end T1D.