Involved in sports since he was a young child, John has found that having type 1 diabetes as an athlete can be difficult, especially when it comes to helping others understand the disease. "It is always a challenge to have to explain to each new coach what diabetes means and what it entails," he says.

Involved in sports since he was a young child, John has found that having type 1 diabetes as an athlete can be difficult, especially when it comes to helping others understand the disease. "It is always a challenge to have to explain to each new coach what diabetes means and what it entails," he says. That's why John, diagnosed at age six, dedicates his extra time to educating others about diabetes and the need for research funding. As a delegate, he hopes to help strengthen the relationship between Congress and JDRF, in order to address that need. John has helped raise about $40,000 for diabetes research through letter-writing campaigns. A member of the National Junior Honor Society, he is an award-winning volunteer and athlete. John is interested in one day pursuing a career in law or business.