Age: 10
Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

MJ is no stranger to speaking with people about what life with T1D is like. Every year, he sets aside time to tell his teachers and classmates about T1D; from what his insulin pump does, to the latest research updates, he keeps those around him well-informed. MJ’s family is all too familiar with the disease, as two of his siblings also have T1D. In addition to playing football and baseball, MJ and his whole family spend countless hours volunteering their time, resources and talents to JDRF. MJ dreams of one day being able to eat without having to worry about checking his blood sugar or taking a dose of insulin. “Diabetes is no fun, but I’m so grateful for opportunities like the JDRF One Walk, Gala and events like Children’s Congress.”

“Five Georgians picked for Children’s Congress to lobby for diabetes research,” the Neighbor, June 27, 2019