Molly

Alabama 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Molly, who has a karate black belt, is a “fighter to cure diabetes.” She wants to become a teacher and an author someday […] Read More

Kaleb

Alaska 2015

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

One of the younger delegates, Kaleb wrote a beautiful, handwritten note explaining what a T1D cure would mean to him: “Please help find […] Read More

Haley

Arizona 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

In a moving letter to her Congressman, Haley explained that complications from T1D are “scary for me and the millions of others with […] Read More

Katherine

Arizona 2015

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Katherine is a YouTube sensation! She has created her own fantastic take on Meghan Trainor’s hit song, “All About That Bass,” but with […] Read More

Nicole

Arizona 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Nicole wants to encourage everyone attending JDRF Children’s Congress—and she hopes to inspire even more people when she’s older. “I want to be […] Read More

Austin

Arkansas 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Stretching boundaries comes easily for Austin, a competitive cyclist who rides hundreds of miles each week. “I push myself to limits not just […] Read More

Isabella

Arkansas 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

“I absolutely love getting to promote type 1 diabetes in my community,” shares Isabella. A three–time recipient of the prestigious JDRF Walk Golden […] Read More

Brooklynn

California 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Having TID can be scary. But, as Brooklynn says, “It’s how you deal with that fear that defines you. In my case, I […] Read More

Charles

California 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

When Charlie grows up, he wants to become a mechanical engineer and “work on solving the problems of our ever changing world.” He’s […] Read More

Claire

California 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Claire, who was diagnosed as a young child, says T1D “has always been part of my life.” But technological advances have evolved as […] Read More

Delilah

California 2015

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Delilah remembers the day she was diagnosed. “It was very scary,” she says, “it was a lot to learn.” Yet Delilah has turned […] Read More

Grace

California 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Grace participated in a JDRF Walk about 10 years before she was even diagnosed with T1D—she walked to support her brother, who was […] Read More

Hunter

California 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Hunter is reaching new heights… and it’s not just because he’s an accomplished pole vaulter. (He even taught himself to vault!) Hunter has […] Read More

Jackson

California 2015

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Can you imagine a restaurant designed for people with T1D? Jackson can. He loves going out to eat but is sometimes frustrated that […] Read More

Jacob

California 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

From speech and debate, to robotics and programming, to lacrosse and cycling, Jacob’s passions are as diverse as his many commitments to T1D […] Read More

John

California 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

An avid baseball player, John has played for as long as he can remember on school, little league, all–star and travel teams. “I […] Read More

Joseph

California 2015

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Joseph has some serious fundraising chops. His JDRF Walk team was the second–highest fundraising team in his local JDRF chapter, raising almost $15,000 in […] Read More

Laura

California 2015

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Laura is a hard worker: She helps her dad on their family ranch, and when she grows up, she wants to become a […] Read More

Louise

California 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Louise, who loves reading, writing, drawing and listening to music, has reached a number of impressive goals. “Accomplishments I’m especially proud of include […] Read More

Madeleine

California 2015

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Maddy tells an inspiring story about sharing her experience with T1D: “I gave a short speech at the Imagine Gala about how I […] Read More

Olivia

California 2015

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Olivia has Olympic–sized dreams: A talented ice skater, she won two first–place medals in her first competition. “My mom said she was extra […] Read More

David

Colorado 2015

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

David is in good company managing his T1D—his older brother was diagnosed with the disease nearly 12 years before David learned he had […] Read More

Michael

Colorado 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Michael isn’t alone in the struggle against T1D. “I have watched my friends, cousin and my brother diagnosed and struggle the same way […] Read More

Olivia

Colorado 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

“Diabetes has thrown me some challenges over the last ten years,” says Olivia. “But my parents have always taught me that I can […] Read More

Claire

Connecticut 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Every kid living with T1D is brave, and Claire is certainly no exception. She’s already participated in three clinical trials, including one on […] Read More

Robert

Connecticut 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Marshall’s entire family is dedicated to JDRF advocacy. Together, they’ve organized a JDRF Walk, rallying friends and family under the team name “Marshall’s […] Read More

Sadie

Delaware 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Education is important to Sadie—especially educating the public about what it means to have T1D. “It is amazing how few people know about […] Read More

Ayame

District of Columbia 2015

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Aya has only had T1D for about a year, but she is already an avid advocate for research and innovation. On National T1D […] Read More

Cassandra

Florida 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Cassandra is truly a JDRF pioneer. Along with her mom and grandma, she helped start six JDRF Walks in her local community, raising […] Read More

Hannah

Florida 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Hannah is a born leader, certified scuba instructor and JV lacrosse player. As a member of Star Leadership, she has worked on solutions […] Read More

Hannah

Florida 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Hannah makes the most of each moment. A competitive dancer who practices 15–plus hours weekly (she has placed in the top 10 in […] Read More

Maguire

Florida 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Maguire is a gifted guitarist. He’s been taking lessons since he was nine, and dreams of becoming a musician or composer. “It is […] Read More

Nick

Florida 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Nick is good with numbers. Now in his eighth year of having T1D, he calculates that he’s undergone about 70,080 hours living with the […] Read More

Rush

Florida 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Rush is attending JDRF Children’s Congress because he has high hopes for a cure. “This is a nation that makes great things happen. […] Read More

Uma

Florida 2015

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

An avid reader and talented artist (she especially loves drawing and painting), Uma was diagnosed with T1D just last year. Yet she and […] Read More

Mary Morgan

Georgia 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

“I’m learning that when life gives you lemons, you should make lemonade,” says Mary Morgan. “Sugar–free lemonade, that is!” Her sunny disposition gets […] Read More

Robert (Bobby)

Georgia 2015

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

For Bobby, a cure for T1D would mean one thing: Game time! “There is so much hope that someday I can just keep […] Read More

David

Hawaii 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

David is living proof that T1D technology is life–changing. He received his first CGM six months after his T1D diagnosis, and later was […] Read More

Kennedy

Idaho 2015

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Kennedy is a blue ribbon–winning member of 4–H, a swim team member and an aspiring gymnast. She is also an experienced advocate for […] Read More

Cooper

Illinois 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

While Cooper is grateful for his insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor, he’s holding out hope for a cure. “In some ways diabetes […] Read More

Emily

Illinois 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

All of the kids in Emily’s family live with T1D. Emily, her older sister and her younger brother have all been diagnosed with […] Read More

Mason

Illinois 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11 months

Mason believes T1D is nothing to shelter others from: “I don’t hide my disease,” he says. “I check my blood sugar in […] Read More

Quinn

Illinois 2015

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Quinn loves the limelight. She has written a screenplay, “Super Duper Low,” about T1D, which was made into a movie that “teaches kids […] Read More

Thomas

Illinois 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Golf, track, wrestling, half–marathon running: Tommy tackles sports, and his T1D, head–on. “Since my diagnosis, I have jumped into managing my type 1 […] Read More

Aidan

Indiana 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

With his younger brother recently diagnosed with T1D, Aidan is attending JDRF Children’s Congress with a renewed determination for a cure. “My family […] Read More

John Christian

Indiana 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Baseball, basketball, Boy Scouts, spelling bees: Christian certainly knows how to keep himself busy! Receiving his T1D diagnosis at age 9, he has […] Read More

Sorin

Indiana 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

“I am proud of the fact that I don’t let T1D define who I am,” says Sorin. Like all kids with T1D, Sorin […] Read More

Blake

Iowa 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Blake wants to give back, perhaps by becoming an endocrinologist someday. His first goal is to help others. “I dream to make a […] Read More

Sofie

Iowa 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

One of Sofie’s greatest achievements also represents two of her passions: public speaking and T1D advocacy. As a ninth–grader, she participated in an […] Read More

Sierra

Kansas 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

At just 4 years old, Sierra decided to stop eating once she realized that her meals went hand in hand with getting those […] Read More

Joseph Drake

Kentucky 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Balancing T1D can be difficult at any age, but especially for a busy teenager. Just ask Drake, who is captain of a top […] Read More

Marina

Kentucky 2015

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Marina isn’t sure what she wants to be when she grows up, but she does know that she wants to make a difference […] Read More

Mary Rose

Kentucky 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

“Spreading awareness of this disease is key to the discovery of a cure,” says Mary. She witnessed the power of awareness in action […] Read More

Lydia

Louisiana 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Lydia has high hopes for the future. “Right now, my future is exciting!” she says. She wants to become a preschool teacher someday. […] Read More

Max

Louisiana 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Despite T1D’s obstacles, Max says he’s thankful. “I feel very lucky that I get wonderful care from my doctors, and I believe that […] Read More

Isabelle

Maine 2015

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Isabelle is known for her contagious smile and positive attitude. Awarded the 2013 James Carpenter Courage Award, her school’s award, for her sunny […] Read More

Mark

Maine 2015

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Marky is attending JDRF Children’s Congress to help fill the “jar.” As his mom says, Marky recently asked her, “Is the jar almost […] Read More

Chase

Maryland 2015

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

This is Chase’s second year serving as a Youth Ambassador for JDRF with his sister, who also lives with T1D. The siblings have […] Read More

Kiara

Maryland 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Technology has changed Kiara’s life. Both Kiara and her brother Chase began using the Animas Ping Pump in 2013, which means the two […] Read More

Jeffrey

Massachusetts 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Jeffrey hasn’t always had T1D, but he has always had a love for hockey. He received his first pair of skates the day […] Read More

Brandon

Michigan 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Playing hockey, being outside, shoveling, watching hockey games, playing video games and playing basketball with friends are Brandon’s favorite activities. But battling T1D […] Read More

Nasir

Michigan 2015

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Not only is Nasir a gifted linguist—he taught himself the basics of Japanese and Spanish, through online tutorials by the time he was […] Read More

Royal (Rollie)

Michigan 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

T1D impacted Rollie’s life long before he discovered he had the disease—both his brother and his father had already been diagnosed with T1D. […] Read More

Abbie

Minnesota 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

Abbie knows all about innovation. She’s starting a nonprofit, called PAb’s Packs, with her friend Pia, who was diagnosed with lymphoma. “We both […] Read More

Dominik

Minnesota 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Managing T1D has taught Dominik the values of dedication and commitment in all aspects of life. An avid ice hockey player, he reflects […] Read More

Landen

Minnesota 2015

Age: 4 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Thanks to his CGM and insulin pump, Landen attends regular preschool. Even with these advances in technology, Landen has been hospitalized seven times, […] Read More

Drew

Mississippi 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Considering becoming either a computer engineer for Nintendo or a history professor, Drew is already well on the way to aligning his passions […] Read More

Cooper

Mississippi 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Diagnosed just a few months after his twin brother Drew received word that he had T1D, Cooper already “knew what I was in […] Read More

Amelia

Missouri 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Despite T1D’s daily challenges, Amelia has a lot of gratitude. “Thankfully I was diagnosed after Frederick Banting discovered insulin. Thankfully I was diagnosed […] Read More

Ethan

Missouri 2015

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

“Last year at the JDRF family retreat, there was a speaker who said that I should ‘make diabetes the best thing that has […] Read More

Shea

Missouri 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Ever notice that ubiquitous JDRF sneaker magnet on a car bumper? You have Shea to thank for raising awareness, one car at a […] Read More

Taite

Montana 2015

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Taite doesn’t just speak for himself; he’s attending JDRF Children’s Congress to represent his little brother and all kids who have T1D. “Type […] Read More

Trevor

Montana 2015

Age: 5 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Swimming, basketball, soccer and pre–school: Trevor is one busy little boy. Along with his family, including his older brother Taite who also has […] Read More

Molly

Nebraska 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Like many kids who found out they had T1D at a very young age, Molly can’t recall the day she was diagnosed. Or, […] Read More

Nolan

Nebraska 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Nolan loves giving back: he works on service projects with his family and his church, helps package meals to send to the hungry, […] Read More

Patsy

Nebraska 2015

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Patsy was already familiar with T1D before she received her diagnosis. Her older brother Nolan, who is also attending JDRF Children’s Congress, was […] Read More

Blake

Nevada 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Blake’s passions are diverse: playing classic rock on his guitar (Metallica, the Beatles and Oingo Boingo are among his favorite bands), collecting new, […] Read More

Juno

Nevada 2015

Age: 5 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11 months

When Juno was 11 months old, she was the youngest person in the state of Nevada with T1D. Now, a confident kindergartener, […] Read More

Kendall

Nevada 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Honor roll student and JDRF Speakers Bureau member Kendall’s true passion is basketball. As a starter for his middle school team as well […] Read More

Skye

New Hampshire 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Skye has already reached a number of her goals. She’s an honor student, field hockey player and tae kwon do martial artist, and […] Read More

Aaron

New Jersey 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

A founding member of the First Lego League, his school’s first–ever robotics team, Aaron is also a talented tennis player. He raises funds […] Read More

John

New Jersey 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Jack is a powerhouse: He’s an accomplished actor (you might have caught him in the TV show Royal Pains), an avid tennis player, […] Read More

Joshua

New Jersey 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

What do T1D and golf, Joshua’s favorite sport, have in common? More than you’d think. “Diabetes and golf are both games of numbers. […] Read More

Lila

New Jersey 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

“Even though I don’t like having diabetes,” says Lila, “I have met some really good friends who I can talk to about diabetes.” […] Read More

Sean

New Jersey 2015

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Sean was diagnosed with T1D at only 2 years old, which, his mom says, forced him to “gain strength that he was too […] Read More

Emma

New Mexico 2015

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Emma is no stranger to sharing her story. The ten–year–old has already told her Congresswoman and Senator all about her T1D, and each […] Read More

Analeigh

New York 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Analeigh draws her strength from her swim team experience. Her signature event is a 20–lap race. “So many people are impressed when they […] Read More

Ashley

New York 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Award–winning advocate Ashley has earned honors from the Pediatric Diabetes Program at Winthrop University for her “tireless effort and support of children with […] Read More

Ben

New York 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Ben knows the power of pairs when it comes to managing T1D. He founded Ben’s Friends Buddy Program, affiliated with the JDRF New […] Read More

Evan

New York 2015

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Evan’s made the front page! He was featured in the Wall Street Journal last year for his contributions to T1D technology. Evan himself […] Read More

Jessica

New York 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Jessica dives headfirst into all her activities: Model UN, crew and the Girls Learn International Club. A certified scuba diver, Jessica has been […] Read More

Kaelyn

New York 2015

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

“My type 1 diabetes does not stop me from doing anything,” declares Kaelyn. “I know, because Mom and Dad tell me that I […] Read More

Mathias

New York 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Mathias and his sister founded Sweet Siblings (sweetsiblings.org), a site available in English and Spanish that helps newly diagnosed kids and teens and […] Read More

Rowan

New York 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Although Rowan wasn’t diagnosed until recently, she has been involved with JDRF from the very beginning. Her older brother learned that he had […] Read More

Ryan

New York 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 16

A natural leader, Ryan is a senior cadet in a JROTC program with the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps, where he oversees […] Read More

Zacharey

New York 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

“I have not stopped doing the things I love or stopped living since my diagnosis,” proudly states Zack. “It has motivated me to […] Read More

Andrew

North Carolina 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Andrew’s participation in JDRF Children’s Congress isn’t his first foray into politics. He has served as both vice president and president of his […] Read More

Rachel

North Carolina 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

“I’ve appreciated my life, both the good and bad, so much more as a chronically ill young person than I ever could have […] Read More

Stella

North Carolina 2015

Age: 4 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Stella was diagnosed with T1D just a few days after her third birthday. As her mom explains, “JDRF is her advocate, as well […] Read More

Stephen

North Carolina 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

“I do believe that if we continue to work together,” says Stephen, “one day diabetes will no longer exist. I try every day […] Read More

Trinity

North Carolina 2015

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Trinity doesn’t just wish for a cure, she works for it. For the last four years, she has asked her friends to bring […] Read More

Turner

North Carolina 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

“The marathon JDRF has been running is closing in on the finish line,” says Turner, “but every extra donation can only succeed in […] Read More

Annelise

North Dakota 2015

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Annelise’s enthusiasm is downright contagious. “A cure would affect my life and my family’s lives so much!” she says. “I’ve gotten 6,376 shots […] Read More

Anna

Ohio 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Anna stays active with tennis, track and ski racing. Her proudest accomplishments include placing second in a half marathon, qualifying for the New […] Read More

Cameron

Ohio 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

The ball’s in Cameron’s court! An accomplished tennis player, Cameron plays twice a week, and competes on a travel tennis team. He also […] Read More

Carter

Ohio 2015

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Carter is the third member of his family to have T1D; his father and grandfather were both diagnosed with the disease, too. Luckily, […] Read More

Isabella

Ohio 2015

Age: 4 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Isabella is a triplet, but she’s also entirely one of a kind. The only one in her family with T1D, Isabella’s family says […] Read More

Jackson

Ohio 2015

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Jackson already has plenty of experience spreading the word about T1D awareness. He has recently served as Northwest Ohio’s Youth Ambassador, as well […] Read More

Connor

Oklahoma 2015

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Connor claims that he’s just an average kid, who loves Legos and Minecraft. But he’s actually an extraordinary boy. A basketball and soccer […] Read More

Emma

Oklahoma 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Dancing, wakeboarding, tubing and swimming keep Emma busy. She loves ballet and jazz (she takes classes twice a week), and in the summer […] Read More

Annika

Oregon 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Like many kids living with T1D, Annika is hopeful for a cure. Just for today, though, she would be content with new advances […] Read More

Ewan

Oregon 2015

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Ewan knows firsthand just how much technology can help a kid with T1D. He has an insulin pump, and recently started using a […] Read More

Henry

Oregon 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Summiting Mount St. Helens and managing T1D are two of Henry’s coolest achievements. But, as Henry explains, there are plenty more. “Some of […] Read More

Ethan

Pennsylvania 2015

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Ethan has been supporting JDRF both on the field and from the sidelines. When his dad ran the New York City Marathon on […] Read More

Evan

Pennsylvania 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

“With my family and friends helping me to get through it, I have made it!” says Evan of his life post–diagnosis. “It has […] Read More

Julia

Pennsylvania 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Julia arrives at JDRF Children’s Congress with a fire in her belly. “I will not simply stand back and watch other people try […] Read More

Kathryn

Pennsylvania 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Kathryn loves writing, babysitting, singing and acting; and has performed in both Cats and The Music Man. “I am proud of the fact […] Read More

Madyson

Pennsylvania 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Madyson is hopeful for what evolving technology can do for T1D. After her diagnosis, she recalls, “I was giving myself shots via insulin […] Read More

Jordan

Rhode Island 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

“I am one person out of the millions of others in this country, but I have learned that one voice can make a […] Read More

Anna

South Carolina 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Type 1 diabetes has influenced Anna’s career dreams. “Before I was diagnosed with type I diabetes, I wanted to be a teacher,” she […] Read More

Katherine

South Carolina 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Katie and her family, along with other local families, instituted JDRF Walks in their community of Hilton Head in 2013. “It has paid […] Read More

Madeline

South Dakota 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Madeline is singing her heart out on behalf of T1D awareness. The talented crooner has performed the national anthem each year for the […] Read More

Evie

Tennessee 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Evie isn’t attending JDRF Children’s Congress just for herself; she’s here to advocate for her younger brother Daniel, too. Daniel was born with […] Read More

Owen

Tennessee 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

As Owen puts it, “My life has truly been shaped by diabetes but not controlled by [it]. … I enjoy getting involved in […] Read More

Sherman

Tennessee 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

DJ is a seasoned public speaker who has addressed crowds at two JDRF Walk events and at Walk meetings, participated in five JDRF […] Read More

Berkeley

Texas 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

In addition to volunteering with her local JDRF office and raising an impressive $50,000 through JDRF Walks, Berkeley worked as a teen counselor […] Read More

Cheney

Texas 2015

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Thrill–seeking Cheney loves riding WaveRunners (“I think she hit 48 mph last summer on a crystal–smooth Geneva Lake in Wisconsin,” says her dad, […] Read More

Elizabeth

Texas 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Elizabeth doesn’t let T1D slow her down one bit! She is an avid and competitive dancer who loves performing jazz, ballet, tap, contemporary—and […] Read More

Grant

Texas 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Grant is translating his love of languages into impressive advocacy work. As a two–year National Spanish Exam gold medalist and secretary of his […] Read More

Intisar

Texas 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Intisar believes it takes a village to improve life with T1D. “I strongly believe that it takes a community and, indeed, the nation […] Read More

Jacquelyn

Texas 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Tumbling, tennis and T1D: Jacquelyn does it all. Diagnosed as a toddler, Jacquelyn has a twin sister who also lives with the disease. […] Read More

Jillian

Texas 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 6

Jillian was diagnosed with T1D years after her identical twin sister Jacquelyn discovered she had the disease. Together, Jillian and her family raise […] Read More

Katherine

Texas 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

“From low blood sugars to high blood sugars, and illness to excitement, and so many other things, I had to just keep my […] Read More

Kathryn

Texas 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Kathryn is passionate about the up–and–coming advances in T1D technology. “New technology would allow for a lot more freedom, something I was never […] Read More

Leah

Texas 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

Tennis player, artist, singer, honor roll student and video game expert are just a few ways to describe Leah. She also lives with […] Read More

Will

Texas 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 15

Will has a mind for business. He recently attended a Cornell University summer business program, and earned a spot in the top 5 […] Read More

Camryn

Utah 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Camryn and her older sister Katherine share more than their T1D diagnoses; the sisters have also embarked on a crusade to advance T1D […] Read More

Emily

Utah 2015

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Emily’s photography has already earned accolades—and it has also highlighted life with T1D. Emily shot a photo showcasing “30 days of diabetes supplies […] Read More

Emma

Vermont 2015

Age: 7 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 3

Emma has a lot to be proud of: She loves going to school, dancing competitively and advocating for T1D awareness. But she says […] Read More

Alexis

Virginia 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 13

“I absolutely love telling people my story,” says Alexis. And what a story it is: Diagnosed at age 13, she has already endured […] Read More

Anna

Virginia 2015

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Anna knows firsthand what it’s like to be part of a movement: Not only has she delivered the keynote address at the JDRF […] Read More

Catherine

Virginia 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

When Catherine received her first pump in second grade, she told friends “it was a cool, secret gadget that only the best children […] Read More

Peter

Virginia 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

En garde, T1D! Peter, an award–winning fencer, is now rallying his defenses against the disease. Diagnosed just last year, Peter plans to return […] Read More

Brynn

Washington 2015

Age: 8 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

Living with T1D for Brynn is a family affair: Both her father and her older sister also have the disease. Spreading awareness is […] Read More

Caroline

Washington 2015

Age: 17 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Caroline is involved in her community as a tutor for second graders, a volunteer at a senior residence and through her work with […] Read More

Hannah

Washington 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Hannah overcame the initial impact of being diagnosed with T1D to develop an impressive advocacy effort. She recalls “I was shocked at first, […] Read More

Jackson

Washington 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 2

Jackson has lived with T1D for a decade now and, today, he wants one thing: freedom. “I want freedom to be a kid […] Read More

Makaila

Washington 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

  Makaila is very mindful of the burdens of T1D—her father has the disease and she was diagnosed at just 16 months old. […] Read More

Paige

Washington 2015

Age: 11 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 8

“I find that when I am creating, I feel most comfortable,” says Paige. Drawing, painting, and writing songs, skits and plays are just […] Read More

Noelle

West Virginia 2015

Age: 12 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7 months

Noelle is an active athlete, choir member and a fervent advocate. Her experience on a competitive travel soccer team has taught her […] Read More

Cara

Wisconsin 2015

Age: 16 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

Cara has gold–medal goals. As a competitive figure skater and national silver medalist skater with a synchronized skating team, she also knows a […] Read More

Jack

Wisconsin 2015

Age: 6 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Jack loves his life. His many favorite hobbies include cooking, eating, skiing, surfing, soccer, traveling and reading. And he has the same zest […] Read More

Keira

Wisconsin 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 4

Keira loves cooking, dance and baking. In fact, she’d like to own her own bakery when she grows up. In the meantime, she […] Read More

Sophia

Wisconsin 2015

Age: 10 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Sophia is one passionate proponent of the cause. “I’ve been a part of JDRF’s Promise to Remember Me Campaign for four years in […] Read More

Stella

Wisconsin 2015

Age: 9 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 1

“I’m proud of myself because anything I set my mind to, I accomplish,” proudly says Stella. Take biking and unicycling, for instance. “I […] Read More

Bryce

Wyoming 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Bryce’s dreams are taking flight. As a member of Civil Air Patrol, a nonprofit associated with the U.S. Air Force that helps with […] Read More

Shelby

Wyoming 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Shelby was diagnosed with T1D when she was five, but she’s long been familiar with T1D. Her grandmother and father have the disease, […] Read More

Daan

International 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 11

When Daan’s not spreading awareness about T1D, he enjoys tennis, skateboarding, gaming, drawing and making videos. After a scary allergic reaction to a […] Read More

Emma

International 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 7

Emma—or Emmz as her friends call her—has been a powerhouse for promoting T1D awareness since she was first diagnosed at age 7. She […] Read More

Gal

International 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 10

Gal enjoys riding horses, playing basketball and sharing her experience with T1D. When she was diagnosed, she worried what her friends would think, […] Read More

Jack

International 2015

Age: 15 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

After his first JDRF Walk, Jack served as a JDRF Walk Ambassador and created “Team Jack of Hearts,” the largest JDRF Walk team […] Read More

Kamilla

International 2015

Age: 14 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 12

Kamilla loves dancing, acting and hanging out with her best friend Johanna, who makes her forget all about diabetes. To help advance T1D […] Read More

Millie

International 2015

Age: 13 | Age at T1D diagnosis: 9

Ever creative, Millie participates in choir and drama—and also channels her creativity into building awareness for T1D. She organized a “Pingathon” at her […] Read More