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 already tackling T1D. He has participated in two continuous glucose monitor studies, which he enjoyed “because I got to experience firsthand the cutting–edge technology that could one day make my life and the lives of many others with diabetes much easier and less stressful,” and he participates in JDRF Walks with his team, Charlie’s Champions. He is especially passionate about technology’s promise for T1D: “I believe that in the near future, I will be able to have full control with little to no input from me, so long as essential funding continues.” Charlie plays lacrosse, participates in his school’s robotics program, and teaches kids about electronics and coding.