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 insulin’s impact on brain growth. Claire advocates for JDRF by participating in JDRF Walks, and has even appeared in a JDRF public service announcement with Mary Tyler Moore. An avid reader, gymnast, dancer and lacrosse player, Claire is sometimes slowed down by T1D, but her life isn’t ruled by her diagnosis. When it comes to the disease, her no–nonsense philosophy is simple: “One way that I have dealt with circumstances since I was diagnosed is to make sure that nobody feels sorry for me. I live my life like any 13–year–old girl. I work hard in school, I hang out with my friends, and I participate in sports.”