Age: 8
Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Mari was diagnosed in April 2023 and has shown remarkable bravery and resilience in learning to live with T1D. The night of her diagnosis, a friend left a Rufus Bear in his Bag of Hope on her front porch, the first of many acts of kindness and support she’s received from the Breakthrough T1D community. Mari loves the many new friends she’s made and has found a sense of pride and purpose in the events, fundraising, and advocacy she’s been able to participate in. She hopes to help make life easier for people like her living with T1D.

Mari’s favorite author is Roald Dahl. She has read ten of his novels, has a few more on the bookshelf ready to go, and even got to see Matilda the Musical in London this past winter! Mari is a joyful, rising third grader who plays tennis, lacrosse, piano, and chess. She also loves skiing, reading, art, and Taylor Swift. Her favorite snacks to treat lows are grapes, Smarties, and chocolate milk.