Age: 17
Age at T1D diagnosis: 5

Donnie was diagnosed with T1D around Halloween, and it was a new world for her and the family. It was difficult at first due to the changes she had to make with nutrition, such as giving insulin and checking sugars throughout the day daily. When she started on her insulin pump, she realized things were easier! When her youngest sister was diagnosed at the age of 3, Donnie stepped up and supported her sister and others like her.

Donnie is a junior in high school, on the honor roll, and wants to be a chef. She is currently looking into schools where she can study culinary arts. She wants to be able to cook healthy and delicious food for everyone to enjoy, whether or not they have T1D. Every year she participates in the Breakthrough T1D Walks, and she also participates in the T1D mentoring program to provide information to other kids and families on the importance of insulin pumps and resources in the community for kids and families.