Abigail was 18 months old when she was diagnosed. Her father, an active duty captain in the Air Force, was deployed to Pakistan at the time, and was devastated that he couldn't be at the hospital with his daughter and wife. Read More
Meredith is a dynamic girl who loves to read (she was the first in her school to read 1,000 pages) and dreams of being a veterinarian. She likes to ride her pony, Cutie Pie, on the family farm, play softball, perform in ballet recitals, and do gymnastics. Read More
When Gus was diagnosed at age six, he thought getting diabetes was just part of growing up, like losing baby teeth. That's because his older brother, Hugo, already had it. Read More
Hugo's positive outlook on life shines brightly, even as he details the hardships of living with type 1 diabetes since the age of three. His desire to spread awareness about what it's like to live with type 1 inspired him to become a Children's Congress delegate. Read More
One day, Brody's mom told him, "You are just like Luke Skywalker! You have The Force inside you and you can use it to get through your site changes." Brody took those words to heart, and used them to find bravery in the face of diabetes' challenges. Read More
Diagnosed at age one, LeAnne spent ages four through six as the Yuma Bikers Against Diabetes Princess, helping to raise money for children with diabetes and to spread awareness in the community. She's volunteered at fundraising events and been interviewed about diabetes for newspaper, radio, and television. Read More
Davis was diagnosed at age six, and says many people don't fully understand the "behind the scenes" challenges of type 1. His older brother Jett, who was also diagnosed two years ago, at 15, says he had never before realized how difficult the disease can be. Read More
One day, Caroline wants to be a professional soccer player, an artist, an orthodontist, and a mom. She also wants to attend Duke University and drive a yellow sports car. Read More
When she was diagnosed just before her 11th birthday – the day before her family was supposed to leave for vacation – Cynthia worried about how her life would change.... Read More
Hayes is living proof that with effort and optimism, change is possible. Strengthened by that positive approach to life, he aspires to be an ambassador one day, to "help bring... Read More
Jeff likes to challenge himself, so when he was diagnosed with type 1 in sixth grade, he knew that in order to continue doing well in school and sports, he... Read More
When Jonathan returned to school after being diagnosed at age six, his mother explained diabetes to his classmates. Since then, his entire school has been supportive, and has even raised... Read More
When Joseph graduates from college, he wants to have a career helping people or animals. In his years before college, however, Joseph is already helping others by spreading awareness about... Read More
"I am so proud to be a part of JDRF," says Kaitlyn, who wants to be a chapter Executive Director one day. Diagnosed at age two, she is a Youth... Read More
Lucy and her family are huge advocates for diabetes research. That's because Lucy was diagnosed when she was three, and a year later, her brother, Hayes, was diagnosed at age... Read More
Michelle, diagnosed at age four, remembers the moment in first grade when she realized she couldn't be totally carefree. While repeatedly climbing up a mountain of snow for toboggan runs... Read More
Ryan, diagnosed at 16 months old, is interested in a career as a dirt bike rider or entertainment wrestler. But first, he wants to teach people about diabetes and help... Read More
A poster hangs in the front office of Ryan's endocrinologist, showing Ryan's many activities and proving that he hasn't let diabetes stop him from living. "It took a lot of... Read More
When she was diagnosed at age 10, Sarah says all she knew about type 1 was that Nick Jonas had it. Since then, she has learned a lot about the... Read More
"I seem to enjoy everything," says Taylor. She loves school, plays soccer and softball, rides horses, plays piano, and is a Girl Scout, not to mention a whole list of... Read More
After her diagnosis at age six, Adele felt like things started spiraling downhill. She was diagnosed with celiac disease in third grade; in fifth grade she fell, causing her insulin... Read More
“Life with diabetes is difficult, but I have decided to try and be the best person I can and have a positive influence on others,” says Julia, diagnosed at age... Read More
Katelynn, her brother, and her sister all have type 1 diabetes. "We never really complain about having diabetes. It is the normal life around our house. However, I do not... Read More
For four years, Jack's best friend, Peter, has kept him company on walks to the school nurse's office to check Jack's blood sugar. Peter and his family also learned a... Read More
Jamie has lived with diabetes since the age of one, and is using her experience with the disease to help others and spread awareness. She mentors a newly diagnosed 11-year-old... Read More
Being active is a big part of Tess's life, whether she's Irish step dancing competitively or participating in Walks with her team, "Trek with Tess," which has raised about $10,000... Read More
Madeline says she does her best to keep her head held high, even though diabetes can be challenging. "I find that promoting diabetes [awareness] is a great way to get... Read More
Although Caitlin sometimes makes sacrifices or adjusts her routine because of diabetes, she says, "There is nothing I can't do because I have diabetes." She has danced in the Nutcracker... Read More
Turning hope into reality through action is something Cassidy's parents taught her. Diagnosed at 16 months old, Cassidy helps younger children at her school who have diabetes by educating their... Read More
"I am a fighter and I will not let diabetes stop me from doing everything I want to do in life," says Christopher, diagnosed at age 13. A competitive tennis... Read More
"As a noun, a dragoon is a mighty soldier. As a verb, it means to compel something into submission," says Daniel, who asks Congress to help dragoon type 1 diabetes. Read More
Harrison remembers when his identical twin brother, Noah, was diagnosed with type 1 at age three. The whole family pitched in to help, and became involved with JDRF. Read More
Since Max was diagnosed at age five, he and his family have helped raise over $50,000 for diabetes research. Max wants to one day become a doctor, and he works... Read More
Noah was three years old when his family found out he had diabetes. "Diabetes has never kept me from doing something," says Noah, who loves playing both drums and sports. Read More
Words are a big part of Sarah's life; she loves to write and has a knack for finding the words to express herself. However, the words "Insulin Dependent," printed on... Read More
Diagnosed at age two, Kyle is a caring boy who is passionate about life. He is learning how to use his blood sugar meter, and has participated twice in the... Read More
Molly says that diabetes makes her "special," not "different." From her diagnosis at age two emerged a number of opportunities for Molly to make a difference, and she's already accomplished... Read More
Robert was 11 years old when he started feeling weak at camp. When he returned home, his parents took him to the doctor, where he tested positive for strep throat,... Read More
One way Samuel tells his story and deals with the frustrations of diabetes is through music. He is a percussionist and plays drums, and also writes music and lyrics. Samuel... Read More
Just like he navigates the winds and waters as he sails, Aaron has learned to navigate the challenges of diabetes and keep moving forward. Diagnosed at age two, he has... Read More
"Some kids don't like talking about their diabetes. I am not scared to talk about it anymore," Sydney told her mom when she heard of the opportunity to be a... Read More
"When I got diabetes, I thought I would never be able to do anything," Aubrey says. "But the truth is that type 1 diabetes only made me stronger." Diagnosed at... Read More
"My aspirations are to be a kind person and a friend to everyone, and to make my community more aware of what type 1 diabetes really is," Caitlin says. Diagnosed... Read More
Friendship and togetherness have proven to be sources of extraordinary strength for Hailey. Diagnosed with type 1 at age three, she was not always met with immediate understanding by other... Read More
Inspired by his own endocrinologist, Justin hopes to pursue a medical degree and help others with diabetes. He already takes action at school, educating staff and students, rallying participation in... Read More
Kelsey remembers the sunny day when, in 45 minutes, she went from being a healthy nine-year-old to a child with type 1. She hoped no other child would have to... Read More
Gabriel's diligence, graciousness, and intelligence have helped him achieve great things as an athlete, Honor Roll student, and JDRF advocate. Diagnosed with both type 1 diabetes and alopecia when he... Read More
Rodney has known diabetes all his life, as he was diagnosed at just 22 months old. His mother, a nurse, suspected he had diabetes, and she was right. But eight... Read More
Jillian loves animals and wants to become a veterinarian one day. Diagnosed at age six, she became the sixth person in her family to have type 1 diabetes, including her... Read More
Kyler has learned a lot about managing his diabetes, which helps during his day-to-day activities such as golf, swimming, and mastering computer games. Diagnosed at age two, he also competes... Read More
Sydney epitomizes strength and compassion. Her oldest sister was diagnosed after Sydney was born, and Sydney was diagnosed at age 12. She remembers her mother – who recently passed away... Read More
William dreams of becoming a commercial airline pilot. Current laws don't permit people with type 1 to obtain a commercial pilot's license, so he and his family want to work... Read More
Caroline hopes to one day earn a Ph.D. and become a journalist, archaeologist, or documentarist. Diagnosed at age four, she hasn't let diabetes halt her dreams. Instead, she's encouraged by... Read More
Parker has been an active supporter of diabetes research since being diagnosed at age 10. He is participating in his second clinical research study at Yale School of Medicine, and... Read More
Charlotte says she is grateful that she's able to control her diabetes well with support from her parents and family, although "it takes a lot of hard work and patience!"... Read More
Gabby's friends have learned a lot about diabetes, and sometimes they even participate in testing her blood sugar. Diagnosed at age one, Gabby can't remember a life without diabetes, and... Read More
Caroline's goal is to make a difference in the world. One way she's already doing that is through her work to educate others and raise money for diabetes research. Read More
Inspired by her mother's hard work to raise awareness, Anna knows how important it is to teach everyone she knows about type 1 diabetes. "By teaching others, I raise awareness;... Read More
Danny enjoys soccer, football, basketball, swimming, and playing trombone in his school's band. He keeps busy, even if that means taking breaks from a sports game or disconnecting his insulin... Read More
Jackson wants to become a professional hockey player one day, and own his own taekwondo studio. He also enjoys baseball, soccer, basketball, lacrosse, golf, reading adventure series, and collecting sports... Read More
Jonathan's lived with type 1 diabetes since age two. Unfortunately, he and his entire immediate family know diabetes all too well. His little sister and father also have type 1... Read More
When Jordan was diagnosed with diabetes at age 11, she already knew all about the disease – both her older brother and her father have type 1 diabetes, and her... Read More
At three years old, Joshua got his first insulin pump and became a delegate in the making when he had his first visit with Congressman Richard Neal. Since then, he... Read More
Alex is one busy kid. He was recognized as "Student of the Month" in kindergarten, first grade, and second grade, and still finds time to play hockey and soccer, ride... Read More
Emily was 14 years old when she was diagnosed, and she decided early on that the challenges of type 1 would not define her life. "Instead, I have chosen to... Read More
Diagnosed at age three, Jarrett says diabetes has made him more responsible, aware, and grateful. "Having diabetes has made me realize that you should make the most of your life... Read More
Lydia had just turned five when she was diagnosed. A few days later, she was testing her own blood sugar, and within weeks was giving herself insulin injections. Lydia's mother... Read More
Since her diagnosis at age six, Madison's tried to keep a positive outlook on life. She even asked her mom to throw a diabetes "anniversary" party to celebrate everything they've... Read More
Stephen is most inspired by the perseverance of his dad and mom. It is a trait they have passed on to Stephen, who shows a lot of strength in dealing... Read More
"Sometimes I get mad because I have diabetes and I think it's not fair, but then I remember my little sister and I think it's not so bad," says Cody,... Read More
Max was diagnosed with type 1 when he was three. Every year, Max's family marks his "diabetes anniversary" with a fun activity, like riding roller coasters, to celebrate everyone's hard... Read More
Not long after the Muths family endured Hurricane Katrina, Mary started showing symptoms of type 1. Her mother recognized the symptoms because Mary's cousin also has type 1. So Mary... Read More
Preston is young for a history enthusiast. But then again, Preston's accomplishments – especially in advocating for diabetes research funding – are all impressive, especially for his young age. Read More
Described as a role model by his endocrinologist, Jack is an international pen pal with underprivileged children in India who also have type 1. "My letters have encouraged many of... Read More
"Jed's Joggers" have raised almost $100,000 for the JDRF Walk, and the team's Walk letter is what sparked NFL player Jared Allen's involvement with JDRF. A Youth Ambassador for the... Read More
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... Read More
Since she was three, Elianna has been a JDRF Youth Ambassador, willing to stand before crowds and introduce herself as a girl with diabetes. She and her parents have worked... Read More
Megan's commitment to JDRF stems from the personal challenges of type 1 she's faced since her diagnosis at age six. But Megan's type 1 struggles have made her a resilient... Read More
Though diabetes can be sad to think about, Allison is usually very happy. She uses her upbeat attitude to inspire and support others, delivering JDRF Bags of Hope to about... Read More
Jacqi started the Nevada Chapter's first cycling team for the Ride to Cure Diabetes, for which she rode 109 miles and raised almost $10,000. She loves being athletic and challenging... Read More
Josie – often known as "the girl who diagnosed herself" – was visited in the hospital by a Las Vegas local television news station just two days after her diagnosis... Read More
"I am proud to say that I have not let diabetes beat me," says Abigail, diagnosed at age five. Tragically, she lost an uncle to complications of diabetes, but has... Read More
Elle shines when dancing, singing, and acting – in fact, she has performed in multiple productions at her local professional theater, and aspires to perform on Broadway. Elle was diagnosis... Read More
Avery remembers closing her eyes whenever her dad checked his blood sugar; she worried that it hurt him to test. He was diagnosed with diabetes at age 13, and his... Read More
Since being diagnosed at age six, Hannah has used her type 1 diabetes to inspire others and advocate for research and awareness. She was the poster child for her local... Read More
Jake’s personal experiences with diabetes – from the feelings of fear and isolation he once felt to the sense of empowerment he gained as he learned to manage his diabetes-... Read More
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... Read More
A yellow belt in karate, Jaxon hopes to earn his black belt one day. He loves to read, is learning to play guitar, and plays soccer, football, and basketball with... Read More
Each year since her diagnosis at age eight, Caitlyn has set up a lemonade stand in front of her house to raise money for JDRF. The one-day-a-year stand's revenue jumped... Read More
Jason was diagnosed with type 1 at age four, and with celiac disease at nine. The combination makes managing diabetes a challenge – one that has inspired Jason to make... Read More
Kristine has lived with diabetes for seven years, but says, "Even with the struggles, I haven't stopped with anything I try to achieve." A couple years ago, Kristine grew tired... Read More
Amazingly, Liam has raised more than $200,000 for diabetes research. He wants to encourage Congress to give more money to diabetes research, and would like to strengthen anti-discrimination laws. Read More
Nick has been living with diabetes since he was three. So when his older sister, Samantha, was diagnosed years later, Nick was able to give support as someone who had... Read More
An active advocate for type 1 diabetes causes since her diagnosis at age 10, Rachel has participated in support groups and attended many events to educate her community. Rachel has... Read More
Rohan asks Congress to join his extended family of advocates for and supporters of type 1 diabetes research. Diagnosed at age two, he has seen how powerful it can be... Read More
Samantha was already familiar with diabetes when she was diagnosed at age 13; her younger brother was diagnosed when he was three. Adjusting to diabetes was not always easy, but,... Read More
At 21 months old, Sam was Piglet for Halloween. Piglet with an IV, that is. He was still in the hospital following a type 1 diagnosis he'd recently received. By... Read More
Since her diagnosis at age six, Ashley has proven that she can maintain an energetic life with type 1 diabetes. She has won first place at three dance competitions, starred... Read More
Ethan loves to be independent. Diagnosed at age two, he was pricking his own fingers and operating his blood sugar meter before age three. He got an insulin pump at... Read More
If he's not playing baseball, or watching the Yankees, Jets, or Carolina Hurricanes play, you might find Robert reading Harry Potter or fundraising for JDRF. Diagnosed with diabetes at age... Read More
Emma was diagnosed at age seven, which is the same age at which her older sister, Haley, was diagnosed. "Haley has been a great big sister and type 1 diabetes... Read More
Haley was diagnosed at age seven, and right away decided to administer her own shots. Still, she felt somewhat alone with the disease until her younger sister, Emma, was diagnosed... Read More
Daniel proved his perseverance at an early age. Diagnosed at age seven, he spent an entire year in the hospital. He would catch nearly every virus around him, causing painful... Read More
In seventh grade, Gabriela earned a spot in the state finals for her science fair project about the effect of breakfast cereals on her blood sugar. The unique project also... Read More
Since she was five, Haley has known the struggles and fears of having type 1. But her resilience and her dedication to making a difference have allowed her to achieve... Read More
Julia is a nationally-ranked Scottish harpist, a student government leader, and a lacrosse and field hockey player who aspires to be a famous musician or a senator one day. She... Read More
Even though, as Max puts it, "having diabetes is not the most fun thing I could imagine," he leads a full life while helping to raise awareness about the need... Read More
An aspiring pediatric endocrinologist, Nathan dreams of a world with no need for such a profession – a world free of diabetes. An outspoken advocate for diabetes awareness, Nathan is... Read More
William has had a JDRF Walk team since being diagnosed eight years ago. He's met with Congress in support of the Special Diabetes Program renewal, and continues to speak on... Read More
Cooper's positive outlook has helped him to turn the diagnosis he received at age 10 into a way to make a difference. Cooper enjoys playing on his school's golf and... Read More
Tessa is always a star performer, whether she's playing piano, doing gymnastics, or acting, singing, and dancing in musicals. In third grade, Tessa won second place in her school's spelling... Read More
Anna, who was diagnosed at age eight, sings with the Portland Opera, and plays piano, flute, dulcimer, soccer, basketball, tennis, and golf. She also loves to cook and specializes in... Read More
Madison was seven years old the day she started experiencing a stomach ache at school, was taken to the doctor, and was diagnosed with type 1. The diagnosis brought with... Read More
Though Ashley was only five years old when she was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, she already knew what it was. Her younger sister, Samantha, had been diagnosed about a... Read More
Hannah is inspired by people who do not let obstacles like diabetes stop them from living a full life. Diagnosed at age three, she has her eyes set on the... Read More
Noel loves to bake and decorate cakes, and one day would like to become a pastry chef. Just like creating a delicious dessert, spreading awareness of type 1 and raising... Read More
Samantha spent her first birthday in the hospital, after being diagnosed at 11 months old. Still, says her mother, Samantha is "very good natured and loves to giggle and is... Read More
Dylan has seen first-hand some of the complications of type 1 diabetes, since his father also has the disease. That contributes to Dylan’s strong involvement with JDRF, but his own... Read More
According to her mother, "Emilie's biggest interest at this point in life is people. She is truly a people person and can hold a true conversation with just about anyone." Read More
Hannah, diagnosed at age eight, encourages members of Congress to put themselves in the shoes of someone with type 1, and maybe even try an insulin pump. She works hard... Read More
Isabella always tells people, "I was born to dance!" She's been ballet and tap dancing since she was 22 months old, which was just four months before she was diagnosed... Read More
When Alex was diagnosed just before his fourth birthday, the Aman family was already familiar with type 1. Alex's older brother, Sam, had been diagnosed at age two. Read More
Diagnosed at age two, Callie has learned how to live a wonderful life with type 1 diabetes, but that doesn't remove the challenges that continue to arise as she gets... Read More
One day, while emptying her blood glucose meter pouch of its strips, Hannah started thinking about how to help Congress understand the magnitude of type 1. She started to save... Read More
Piper is tremendously active in the East Tennessee Branch of JDRF. She has filmed fundraising videos for the branch, and even got to meet Jared Fogle, the "Subway Guy," and... Read More
Diagnosed at age five, Addyson has faced her diabetes with grace and maturity, maintaining her enthusiasm for life. "I am not sure where she gets her toughness, but my wife,... Read More
Carson enjoys playing "soccer minis," swimming, jumping on the trampoline with his brothers, working in the yard with his dad, and pushing people in their wheelchairs at the nursing home... Read More
Juliana was diagnosed a month before her fourth birthday. Although it isn't always easy, she has been tremendously brave while learning about type 1. She and her family share their... Read More
Luke's enthusiastic personality fuels the great things he's doing on behalf of diabetes research. Diagnosed at age seven, he recorded a radio commercial for JDRF and was pictured on JDRF... Read More
Robert is a JDRF star. He has received the Aaron Family Award for volunteer work from the Houston Gulf Coast Chapter, organized a Walk team ("I Hate Needles"), raised over... Read More
"I really enjoy the challenge of the game," says Ethan of football. "I like the teamwork required." This positive outlook also shines in Ethan's fight against diabetes. Read More
Savannah and her mom, who both have diabetes, volunteer their time every six weeks at a local children's hospital to lend support to newly diagnosed children and their families on... Read More
One day, Johanna wants to win a gold medal at the Olympics and "show everyone that type 1 diabetes isn't going to stop me!" She and her family are doing... Read More
Nicholas (who goes by Nick) loves math and has quickly become a whiz at calculating carbs. Diagnosed at age six, he wants to become the first three-in-one player (of baseball,... Read More
Emily would like Congress to understand how important it is to find a cure for type 1, and know that research is the only way for that to happen. In... Read More
Kerry knew about diabetes before she was diagnosed. At a very young age, she was involved in a clinical trial for high-risk relatives of people with type 1, since her... Read More
Inspired by a nurse who made her laugh and took care of her when she was diagnosed at age eight, Riley wants to pursue a career as an intensive care... Read More
Timmy, diagnosed at age four, admits that diabetes can be scary but stays strong and positive for his family. "We are a team and we fight this disease together," he... Read More
"I had no choice with this disease but I do have a choice with helping others," says Yvonne, who was diagnosed two days before her sixth birthday. She already knew... Read More
Chloe's spirit is a force to be reckoned with. Diagnosed at age seven, Chloe was recently adopted by her grandparents, who have been working to raise awareness about the disease. Read More
An active athlete, Kieran (nicknamed Kiki) tries not to let his type 1 diabetes slow him down. He enjoys basketball, skiing, and soccer, and is determined to live a fun... Read More
Sara is thankful for the support from family and others who have helped her continue to live an active life since her diagnosis at age 11 – from cross-country coaches... Read More
Though people with type 1 are currently restricted from obtaining a commercial pilot's license, Jay isn't letting that stop him from pursuing his dream. He started a group called "Pilots... Read More
"I love showing other kids that they can follow their dreams no matter what life throws at them," says Alexander. Type 1 diabetes has not stopped him from leading an... Read More
"In the future, I aspire to do something meaningful," says Darby. She has thought about opening her own dance studio (since she loves to dance), or becoming an endocrinologist to... Read More
Max and his younger sister, Sophie, both have type 1, and have teamed up in the fight against diabetes. With their team, "The Attack Pack," they raise money in the... Read More
Sophie and her older brother, Max, are on a mission: to raise awareness of the disease they both have, and to tell their story of living with type 1 diabetes... Read More
Myrtice has experienced years of struggling with type 1, since being diagnosed at age three. She helped her mom run a diabetes support group, which allowed her to see the... Read More
One of Diana's favorite quotes is from Mahatma Gandhi: "Be the change you want to see in the world." As a delegate, she wants to be a link between the... Read More
For her sixth birthday, Billie wished for a magic wand to cure diabetes. When the wand didn't appear, she used what she did have: the ability to take action by... Read More
Jonas was diagnosed at age six, and says that until he was 10, he let diabetes control his life. At age 10, however, he became part of a trial project... Read More
After Merijn was diagnosed at age 10, he flew with his parents and sisters to the United States to meet with people from JDRF. Merijn’s father recently started a JDRF... Read More
Myriam – the first child in Quebec to attend kindergarten with an insulin pump – inspired the development of a French language storybook (endorsed by JDRF) that will help simplify... Read More
Ohad enjoys staying active, whether he's playing tennis, scoring a goal in soccer, participating in Boy Scouts, or helping to raise awareness about diabetes with his JDRF community. He says... Read More
"I am a very positive person who tries to do everything to the very best of my ability, and that includes caring for myself and making others aware of type... Read More
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