Age: 13
Age at Diagnosis: 4

Nathaniel is an accomplished saxophonist (who also plays trombone) who started playing sax just over a year ago, and is now one of the best in his school! He plays basketball on an AAU travel team which is incredibly competitive, and says it helps him “feel free from T1D.” Despite his busy schedule, Nathaniel also maintains straight A’s, and makes time to raise awareness about T1D by serving as a JDRF Youth Ambassador, participating in the JDRF One Walk each year, and talking to his peers and other members of his community. 

In his free time, when he isn’t playing an instrument, Nathaniel enjoys working out and dreams of playing basketball in the NBA one day. One of his biggest inspirations is Gary Forbes, who is one of the few NBA players living with T1D, and “he is not only a role model but has become a friend to me!”

“13-year-old Apopka student chosen as delegate at Children’s Congress on diabetes research in Washington, DC,” The Apopka Voice, June 13, 2023

“Teen to speak in D.C. about living with Type 1 diabetes,” The Apopka Chief, June 23, 2023

“Florida teen takes on Congress to raise awareness about type 1 diabetes ‘so people can have better lives’,” FOX 35 Orlando, July 6, 2023

“Apopka teen chosen to advocate for diabetes research in DC,” News 6 Orlando, July 14, 2023