Age: 14
Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Matthew likes to play drums, ride his bike and hang out with friends. He is also very proud to be a part of the gifted program at his school. Matthew’s team for his first JDRF One Walk raised more than $7,000 for T1D research. He says, “The day of the Walk, I was amazed by the number of people there to support finding a cure.” Matthew and his sister volunteer at their local JDRF Gala. He is also a JDRF Youth Ambassador and has shared his story in his community and on local media. At times, he gets discouraged when his blood sugar prevents him from playing sports with his friends. “Even though there have been many advances, it is still a daily struggle to handle diabetes.”

Focus on Family: Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation / WGN 9 / August 1, 2017