Meet Our CDF Advocates

Meet Walker. She was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when she was 5, the summer before starting kindergarten. She loves to dance ballet, cook, play with her pets, and spend time with her friends.  She spends every summer in Maine playing in the water, building campfires, and shining her light on her East Coast family.  When she grows up she wants to be a chemist, or a photographer.  She wishes people knew more about Type 1, especially that it’s not contagious. 

Hi! My name is Caleb, and I’m almost 11 years old. I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when I was really little, so I’ve had T1D for about 9 years now. I love playing Roblox and Geometry Dash with my friends, building worlds, beating hard levels, and laughing when we totally fail and have to start over. Diabetes means I have to do extra things like check my blood sugar and deal with my devices, but it doesn’t stop me from gaming, going on adventures, or having fun with my family.

My name is Zoe, and I’m almost 9 years old! I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when I was just 8 months old, so I don’t remember life before diabetes, but I do know how strong it has helped me become. I’m in 3rd grade and love going to school, learning new things, and spending time with my friends. I’m an active member of Girl Scouts and the Boys and Girls Club, where I like helping others, trying new activities, and being part of my community. I love to sing, dance, and play games with my friends, especially when we can be silly and have fun together. Even though living with Type 1 diabetes can be hard sometimes, I’ve learned to be brave, responsible, and proud of who I am. I want other kids with diabetes to know they are not alone and that they can still chase their dreams and do amazing things.

My name is Darius Anderson and I was diagnosed with Type 1 four days after my 9th birthday. I sometimes joke that I got diabetes as my birthday gift. I live in Fort Collins with my parents, my older brother, and lots of animals. My favorite pets are cats, especially my kitty, Wrangler. My favorite subject in school is history and I enjoy participating in the Lego Robotics club at school. I love to spend my summers in Wisconsin on the lake waterskiing and fishing, and my winters skiing in the Colorado mountains. I also love to watch cooking shows and learn about new ways to prepare foods. My brother and I have recently found a love for playing Sea of Theives on Xbox with friends.

Hi, I’m Aiden Appiah. I’m 15 years old and was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in January 2025. I’m a soccer player for the Colorado Rapids MLS Next team and have been honored to be part of the USA Youth U15 National Team roster. Soccer is a huge part of my life, and I also enjoy my academic studies. Since my diagnosis, I’ve learned how important discipline, preparation, and resilience are both on and off the field. Living with Type 1 Diabetes has given me a new perspective and a new purpose. I want to help improve diabetes management for youth and athletes so they can pursue their goals with confidence. Diabetes is part of my journey, but it does not define my limits.

Hi, I'm Mia! I'm 13 years old and was diagnosed with T1D at 9, right in the middle of 3rd grade. I love being an advocate for the CDF — it’s given me amazing opportunities and even helped me meet my Dia-Bestie! I’m obsessed with all things beauty, love hanging out with my friends, doing TikTok dances, and playing tennis.

My name is Ellie and I was diagnosed with T1D in 2024 when I was 6 years old. I love to dance (especially ballet and jazz), draw, read and ski. I also love to travel with my family -- last year we went to Austria, Germany and Switzerland! I started playing basketball and cheerleading at my school this year, which has been really fun! When I grow up I want to be an illustrator or a diabetes educator.

My name is Anna, I am 9 years old and have lived with T1D since I was 3.  I love spending time with my family and friends, reading, playing chess, soccer, basketball, tennis and skiing.  T1D doesn't stop me from doing anything and having diabetes makes me feel special.

My name is Ellie and I am 7 years old.  I was diagnosed with Stage 1 T1D when I was 4 and Stage 2 T1D when I was 5.  I was very lucky to receive Tzield through the PETITE study to help protect my pancreas, and so far I have still not progressed to Stage 3 T1D!  I love reading, playing with my family and friends.  I also enjoy playing basketball, soccer, tennis, skiing, gymnastics and baking.

Drew is in 7th grade at Louisville Middle School. He was diagnosed in August 2020 when he was 8. He plays the saxophone and keyboards and is a member of the school band and jazz band. He also attends the School of Rock. Drew plays basketball and baseball and loves watching football especially the Georgia Bulldogs and the Seattle Seahawks. Drew attends Camp Sweeney a camp for kids with type 1 every Summer.

My name is Mari, I’m a third grader who plays tennis, lacrosse, and piano. I also love skiing, reading, art, and music. I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in April 2023. My favorite snacks to treat lows are grapes, gummies, and chocolate milk.

My name is Emmy and I was diagnosed with T1D when I was just 2 years old!  I am now 10 and I am a soccer player, gymnast, dancer, skier, piano player and avid reader and tree climber!   T1D only makes me stronger.

My name is Allen and I have had type 1 diabetes for 4 years. I love spending time outdoors with my family (fishing and hiking). I also enjoy playing with friends and playing video games.

My name is Isla and I’m 12 years old and in 7th grade. I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes when I was 10. My hobbies include volleyball, basketball, acting, and creative writing. I also love music and sing and play guitar. I love spending time with my friends and going skiing in winter and to Camp Sweeney every summer in Texas. My family and I also love to travel and explore new places.

My name is Maizey and I was diagnosed in March 2025 when I was 6 years old. It was a lot to learn but I’m very independent and brave. I love to sing, dance, swim, and play make believe. I’m still learning as I go but I am enjoying being a kid!

My name is KJ, and I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes on May 15th, 2025. I’m 12 years old and live on a ranch and animal rescue in rural Colorado, where I stay busy with many things I care about. I’m a Boy Scouts and 4-H member, and serve on the Teen Advisory Board for Anythink Library. I also swim competitively and recently became the Director of Education for the East Adams Arapahoe County Farmers Union—where I help lead workshops and advocate for young people in agriculture.  I’m passionate about learning, leadership, and making sure everyone feels included. Whether I’m helping plan a library event, working on a 4-H project, or speaking at a Farmers Union meeting, I try to bring curiosity, kindness, and a sense of responsibility to everything I do. Being diagnosed with type 1 has added a new layer to my life. I’m learning how to manage it with support from my family, my community, and the staff at Barbara Davis Center.  I believe in quiet bravery, showing up for others, and finding creative ways to make a difference. Thanks for letting me share my story.  To anyone newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes:  You’re not alone. I was diagnosed on May 15th, 2025, and I remember how overwhelming it felt at first—like everything was changing all at once. But here’s what I’ve learned: you can still do the things you love. You can still lead, swim, explore, rescue animals, and be part of your community. You just learn new ways to take care of yourself along the way.  It’s okay to feel frustrated or scared sometimes. I do too. But you’ll find your rhythm, and you’ll meet people who understand. You’re stronger than you think, and you don’t have to be loud to be brave.  You've got this.  —KJ

Hi there! My name is London, and I’ve been living with Type 1 diabetes for the past 10 years. As a 15-year-old, I’ve learned to navigate the challenges of diabetes and embrace the incredible technology that helps me manage my condition. From continuous glucose monitors to insulin pumps, these innovations make handling the ups and downs of diabetes so much easier.When I’m not managing my blood sugar, you can find me on the volleyball court, perfecting my swing on the golf course, or enjoying the thrill of riding my motorcycle. I also love watching Avalanche hockey! The excitement of the game and cheering for my favorite team always brings a smile to my face.I believe that living with Type 1 doesn’t define me; instead, it empowers me to advocate for others in the community. I’m passionate about sharing my experiences and inspiring others to embrace their journey with diabetes. Together, we can make a difference!

Meet Brody! He is 13 years old and in 7th grade! He was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes when he was 9 years old. Brody is the Denver Broncos number one fan. He loves to play football every chance he can. He also loves to run track and is lightning fast! When he grows up, Brody hopes to become a pro football player and be voted Man of the Year for his work in supporting other Type 1 kids and athletes.

Meet Everly! She is 11 years old and in the 6th grade! She was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes when she was 2 years old. She loves to educate others on Type 1. Everly is an avid soccer player who also loves to run track, and play basketball at school with friends. She is creative, sweet and fiercely loyal. When she grows up she hopes to become a doctor or scientist and invent insulin pods which are small and painless to apply!

My name is Lucas Greer, and I’m 15. I was diagnosed with T1d just before first grade. It was a big change, but over time, I’ve learned to manage it and live life on my own terms. T1D is part of my life, but it doesn’t define who I am or what I can do. I stay active year-round. I play competitive soccer and am on my high school’s soccer and golf teams. In the winter, I ski whenever I can. Sports have always been a big part of my life, and managing T1D while staying competitive has taught me a lot about responsibility and balance.  Outside of sports, I enjoy spending time with friends and finding ways to support others. As a CDF advocate, I hope sharing my experience helps other kids see that T1D doesn’t mean sitting on the sidelines—you can still do what you love, work hard, and support others.

My name is Maisie and i've had type one for 3 years. I dance, play volleyball, and swim in the summer. One thing I enjoyed in the last year is my trip to Puerto Rico. My favorite subject in school is ELA.

My name is Ellie. I am 13 years old and live on my families farm in Illinois. I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes when I was 6 years old. I enjoy playing volleyball and softball. I particpate in cheerleading, tumbling, 4H and I love showing cattle. I don't let having diabetes slow me down from doing what I enjoy! When I grow up I want to be a cosmetologist and make people feel beautiful.

My name is Henley Harris. I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes when I was 2 years old. I don’t remember what life was like before diabetes. One of my favorite things is playing and watching sports. I play lacrosse and rugby in the fall and spring. In winter I like to ski. And in summer I go on long rafting and kayaking trips with my family. I love to travel to new places and go on adventures. My older sister is my best friend and always looks out for me. When I grow up I want to be the first diabetic astronaut.

My name is Sarah and I was diagnosed in February of 2021. I love participating in Scouts BSA (I am an Eagle Scout), camping, competing in triathlons, running, playing soccer, skiing, biking, spending time with my family, and biking. I love school and am working on an Associates degree in Secure Computing. When I graduate from high school I would like to become a Biomedical Engineer and design new technology to make living with TID even easier until the cure is found.

My name is Hadley, and I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes when I was 5 years old and Celiac Disease at 4 years old. I love art and music—I play piano, write my own songs, and recently started learning guitar. I also enjoy skiing, lacrosse, and traveling with my family. T1D doesn't stop me from doing all the things I love!

My name is Izzy and I’ve lived with Type One Diabetes for 5 years. Advocating for Type One, playing tennis, and being part of my schools Student Council are major parts of my life. When not doing those things, I love to spend time with my family, my dogs, and my best friend.

Hailey is currently in 8th grade and she is looking forward to attending high school in the fall.  She stays active playing volleyball, swimming year round and playing softball.  Her true passion is theater and getting to perform.  She enjoys reading and creating art. Hailey serves as an advocate for the Barbara Davis Center in which she participates in events throughout the year and helps to fundraise.  She was diagnosed almost twelve years ago at the age of two, however diabetes hasn’t slowed her down. She is very open about being a type 1 diabetic so that her friends and the world around her can understand the complexity of this disease. Learning to think like a pancreas has become her superpower.

My name is Grant, I've been living with Type 1 for two years. I run varsity cross country and track for my high school team. I would like to help others realize Type 1 doesn't have to slow you down. My goal is to continue running in college and study engineering.

My name is Josh and I have had type 1 for 7 years. My hobbies include robotics, 3D printing, soccer, football, volleyball, and 3D modeling. I was diagnosed with T1D in 2019 in 3rd grade and since then my life has changed.

My name is Matti and I am 15 years old. I was diagnosed with T1D 4.5 years ago. I have been dancing for 8 years and now use dance as a way to share my T1D journey with others. When I am not working on my small business, I also enjoy being a big sister, fishing, paddleboarding and really embracing beautiful Colorado!

Hello, my name is Alexzia and I have been diagnosed with type 1 for 3 years and 6 months. I am currently in 8th grade and enjoy playing volleyball at my school and participating in competition cheer after  school.  I have been able to travel a lot because of my school and cheer functions which has been a lot of fun. I have learned over the years how to manage my insulin pump for my cheer competitions to make sure that I am in control and not the T1D. It was important for myself and my family that the type one did not control my life and that I was able to still participate and enjoy activities like my friends. Using an insulin pump has helped and also going to Camp Conrad the past three years also with making life long friendships and the education has helped me a lot. Sharing the knowledge I have learned with others makes me feel like I am able to give back to what I have been given.

Hi, my name is Marissa and I've had type 1 diabetes  for 6 years. I was diagnosed on May 12, 2020. I just started middle school and I'm enjoying learning how to play the trumpet! I also love to dance and do anything that involves crafts! My favorite thing to do when I'm not at school is make jewelry!

My name is Chesney Martin, and I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 2, and have been a T1D warrior for 9 years. I love traveling to the beach, skiing in the mountains, and playing golf, basketball, soccer, and flag football. I adore spending time with my family, reading books, and seeing movies, and I’m grateful to have an amazing team of friends who support me every day. My family and friends are the heart of my support system. I hope to open minds, stop stereotypes, break barriers, and continue raising awareness as I fight relentlessly for a cure.

My name is Emma and I’ve had Type 1 Diabetes for 9 years. I’ve been playing soccer for 9 years and basketball for 5. When I grow up I want to be a disability attorney to help people like me. I’m going to college in two years hoping to get a law degree for my future! I’ve went to congress to speak about my life and how new things for diabetics would be a life changer.

My name is Evelyn Miller. I am 13 years old and was diagnosed with T1D just after my 10th birthday. I have an older brother, twin little sisters and a golden retriever learning to be an alert dog. I have been active in Girl Scouts for 9 years,  a day camp Program Aide for 2 years and I enjoy working with younger scouts. I play basketball and am learning to play tennis.

Hello! My name is Lilian Moore. I am 12 years old, and have had Type 1 Diabetes for four years. Although the disease is not easy, it has taught me how to persevere, be resilient, and to be more empathetic. In my free time, you can find me crocheting, reading, snowboarding, painting board game mini figures, playing my musical instruments (violin, piano, and french horn), and hanging out with my family.

My name is Olivia, I am 17 years old and have been type 1 since I was 10. I love playing soccer, running, reading, doing anything crafty, going out for coffee and spending time with friends and family. I'm a senior in high school and plan to pursue a career in pediatric nursing.

My name is Toby Newmark and I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes the day after my seventh birthday. I also have Celiac. I love sports! I play soccer and hockey, and I love to ski, and I'm on a rock climbing team. My dog's name is Macky and he is my protector and best friend. I want other kids to know that diabetes doesn't hold you back from doing all the fun things you like!

My name is Audrey and I’ve had type 1 for almost 2 years - I was diagnosed when I was 5. I love to have fun and diabetes doesn’t stop me. I love gymnastics, swimming & ice skating.

My name is Cooper, and I have had Type 1 Diabetes since I was 5 years old—almost four years now. At first, it was hard to understand why I had to count carbs, do finger pokes, and change my sites, but over time it has become much easier to manage. I always tell my friends that I have T1D, but it’s not like COVID, you can’t catch it!  I love playing sports, especially soccer, and Type 1 Diabetes doesn’t stop me from doing what I love. I hope I can help other kids who are new to T1D or feel sad about having it. I feel lucky to have Type 1 Diabetes because it lets me go to fun camps, feel special at BDC, and I loved being part of the Brass Ring Luncheon.

My Name is Kelsie. I have had type 1 diabetes for 6 years. I was diagnosed when I was in first grade and I am not in 7th grade. I play the trumpet it the school band, and I love to dance. This year I was a toy soldier in the nutcracker.

Hi my name is Marin Ray and I am 16 years old! I was diagnosed with T1D when I was 2 years old. I love to play lacrosse and travel all over the country for different tournaments! I also play flag football and ski a lot. When I grow up I want to play college lacrosse and become a doctor to help and create impact on people the same way others did for me!

My name is Margot Rea, I am 17, and I've had Type 1 for 15 years. This is going to be my 10th year being an advocate for the CDF. I play club and high school volleyball. I participate in many clubs like Bake My Day, Medical Club, Create for Kids, and Jags Go Pink. I am in three National Honors Societies through my school, which include Regular, Science, and English. When I am not at school or playing volleyball, I am baking or hanging out with my friends. If I could do something everyday, it would be surfing or snorkeling.

My name is Jacob and I have been living with Type 1 diabetes since I was 2.5 years old. I am passionate about raising awareness and helping others better understand what life with T1D is like. I love learning about technology, artificial intelligence, building games, and creating projects. I also like to ski, hike and ride bikes with my friends.

My name is Asher, and I love building things, being creative, skiing and playing golf. In 2022, when I was 6 years old, I was identified with type 1 diabetes autoantibodies. I am not scared of diabetes because I have seen my brother live with it every day, and that has made me feel strong and prepared.

Hi, my name is Sophia Reynolds. I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes 1 week before my 5th birthday. I don't really remember a life without Type 1, however, it's safe to say I LOVE MY LIFE! I continue to remain active in sports and do, and eat, just about anything I want in spite of my diabetes.  I met my best friend, Mia, at the Brass Ring event right after her diagnosis. She has been the best thing that has come out of my diagnosis with Type 1. I love volunteering with the Childrens Diabetes Foundation to show other kids that Type 1 diabetes doesn't have to limit you. I am so busy with school and sports that sometimes I forget I even have it.

My name is Charlotte. I have had diabetes for 10 years. I am a freshman in high school. I’m a competitive athlete with my man focus being soccer, but I also ski and love the outdoors. Growing up I was surrounded by kids, I have siblings of my own as well as multiple cousins. I love taking care of kids and have been a nanny to multiple families, including one with a child with type 1.  I have gone to a variety of summer camps, my main one being Camp Sweeney, a diabetic camp located in Texas. Over the years I have gone through many challenges while having diabetes, such as heart surgery, and last August I broke my leg playing soccer. All of these set backs have made me even stronger and have taught me how to handle my diabetes with ease. I am a very focused academically as well, with big aspirations, and overall am a very determined person. I am confident that everything I have experienced will make me a very effective advocate.

Hi! My name is Isla, and I’ve been living with Type 1 Diabetes for 3.5 years. I was diagnosed when I was 6, and now I’m 10. It hasn’t always been easy — there have been some really tough and even scary moments — but I’ve learned a lot during my journey.  Even though I have T1D, it hasn’t slowed me down. I play soccer, I do gymnastics, and I love making people laugh. I’ve worked hard to take care of myself, and I’m really proud of how far I’ve come.  One of the most important things I’ve learned is that I’m not alone — and I want other kids with Type 1 to know they aren’t either. I want to help kids who are newly diagnosed feel strong, brave, and supported.  I might only be ten, but I already have a big dream: to help find a cure for Type 1 Diabetes so that kids like me don’t have to live with it forever.

 T1D Advocate & Athlete Ryder is a 7th grader who doesn't believe in limits—only adjustments. A veteran advocate for the Children’s Diabetes Foundation, Ryder has been navigating life with Type 1 Diabetes for nine years, nearly his entire life.  When he isn’t speaking up for the T1D community, you can find him on the football field or the Jiu-Jitsu mat. He is living proof that with the right mindset and a bit of grit, diabetes is just one part of a very big, very active story. Ryder is excited to continue his mission to inspire newly diagnosed kids to stay in the game and never let a diagnosis slow them down.

Hi, I’m Emerson Weis and I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when I was three. I’m 12 now and I love playing soccer for my club and middle school teams. I love being an advocate with the Children’s Diabetes Foundation so I can show other kids with T1D that they don’t have to stop playing sports. I like to share tips to stay healthy so they can feel good and play their best!

My name is Patrick and I've had type 1 for 5 years. I was diagnosed in November of 2020 during the pandemic. The first couple years that I had diabetes were difficult and hard to wrap my head around but I can confidently say now that I have caught on well to how to manage myself. Ive always had a passion for theatre and being on stage in front of a crowd. The community that comes from being a thespian is an unforgettable experience and something I will cherish for the rest of my life. I have also loved to play the cello and be in an orchestra since 4th grade. Entertaining others, whether it's cracking a joke or putting on a performance has been my biggest goal in my everyday life. I am a very social person, so going to events and interacting with others is always right up my ally. I've also never been much of a writer so putting ideas down on paper or a document like this one never end up formal and very professional if I am the author. Being a diabetes advocate would be amazing for me because Informing others and helping whenever and however I can brings me a joy that nothing else can give me. I've also always been a math nerd and  love working with things like numbers and graphs which kinda worked out for me because I'm looking at a number chart all day.

My name is Emma and I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes when I was in kindergarten at the age of 5. Now I’m 13 and in 7th grade. I have a passion for dance, travel, and hanging out with my friends. I am in honor society, play the flute in middle school, and also am a part of an ASL signing choir. I enjoy participating in diabetes events such as Camp Colorado, Riding on Insulin, and Friends For Life Conference in Orlando. I hope to become a pediatric endocrinologist when I grow up!