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- inspired him to take action. “My motivation to help others became very, very clear,” says Jake, diagnosed at age seven.

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- inspired him to take action. “My motivation to help others became very, very clear,” says Jake, diagnosed at age seven. With his brother, Jake started Dollars for Diabetes, which has raised over $100,000 for diabetes research through children’s efforts alone. Jake also runs Fine Friends, an email exchange program that supports newly diagnosed children. He wants them to know that they are not alone, like he used to feel. Jake also raises money during JDRF’s Walk to Cure Diabetes with his team, “Brotherly Love.” Amazingly, he’s helped raise about $960,000 for research, and received a community service award from his town’s mayor.
Jake enjoys playing lacrosse and tennis. As a delegate, he wants to raise awareness, and get help for those who cannot afford diabetes supplies.