I remember someone once asked me, “What would you do if you didn’t have type 1 diabetes?” Diabetes can be extremely frustrating at times, but it doesn’t stop me from doing anything.  The truth is, it’s made me who I am.

I was diagnosed at 13, right as I started middle school.  Like every other teenager diagnosed with the disease, I asked, “Why me?  What did I do to deserve this?”  But it wasn’t worth it to be negative.. My life was on the line.  I had to manage my blood sugar if I wanted to live a good life.  So I did, and although it wasn’t easy, I got my diabetes well-controlled.

Once I accepted diabetes and realized how it strengthens and motivates me, my life changed.  8 years later, I’m a junior at George Mason University, healthy, and have a substantial following in the T1D community.  When I began college, I organized a support group for students with diabetes.  I wanted to help others cope with the challenges diabetes brings in college.  In November, Diabetes Month, I created Diabetes 101 on Twitter (@T1Diabetes101) as a means to connect with even more people, advocate for type 1 diabetes awareness, promote positivity, and stop diabetes myths from spreading.  I’ve reached about 4,000 followers in under a year.  That includes people with T1D, parents, and leading diabetes organizations around the world.  I went from not knowing anyone with the condition at all to meeting and helping thousands online.  It’s been great connecting with so many.  I’m studying to become a clinical psychologist for young adults and children with T1D.  Having support is key to living a good life with it.

This past summer, I received an amazing internship at JDRF Headquarters (National) in New York City.

It was by far the best experience of my life.  I worked in the marketing department, focusing on social media and digital strategy.  I learned so much there and also provided JDRF with my insights as a T1D with social media experience. Previously, I attended walks and promoted the organization on social media.  I was thrilled to be a more integral part of JDRF. And I’m even more excited to now be interning at the Greater Chesapeake and Potomac Chapter!

What would you say to someone who does not have a direct type-1 connection in order to encourage them to volunteer with the chapter?  “Be the walk to change the future type.”  There is no better feeling than that of helping someone.  Every minute you spend volunteering, every dollar you donate, and every step you take on a JDRF walk will help improve the lives of millions of people with type 1 diabetes and create a future without it.

What would you say to someone that does have a connection to get them involved in the chapter?  It’s hard dealing with type 1 diabetes alone.  JDRF is the best place to connect with others experiencing what you’re going through who want to make a difference.  Knowing that everyone at JDRF is taking on the diabetes battle together is a one-of-a-kind feeling.  You can help turn type one into type none by getting involved with JDRF: volunteering with other T1Ds, assisting with event planning, and leading fundraising efforts.