Charles's enthusiasm and determination are inspiring, especially given the challenges he has faced. Diagnosed in 2006, Charles has traveled with his mom around the country visiting doctors, as there are no endocrinologists in his town, and very few in Montana in general.

Charles's enthusiasm and determination are inspiring, especially given the challenges he has faced. Diagnosed in 2006, Charles has traveled with his mom around the country visiting doctors, as there are no endocrinologists in his town, and very few in Montana in general. For this reason, he missed most of eighth grade, but caught up to his classmates and has his eyes set on high school and college. "Nothing can stop me!" he says. Charles likes skateboarding, snowboarding, and bouldering. In addition to working in computer animation, Charles is interested in becoming an ER nurse like his mother, and maybe one day an endocrinologist. He is active in JDRF's Walk to Cure Diabetes and Ride to Cure Diabetes, and has a "permanent" medical alert bracelet (tattoo). Charles wants to raise awareness about diabetes, and encourage Congress members, especially in Montana, to help people with diabetes who need doctors, clinics, and funding.