Meet Kathryn

I was 6 years old when everything changed. It was November 2005, right before Thanksgiving. I’d gone from being a curious, energetic kid to constantly tired, extremely thirsty, and just not myself. My dad thought maybe it was growing pains, but my mom knew something was wrong.

The day before Thanksgiving, I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. I’ll never forget the fear of my first insulin shot—I jumped on the bed, screaming, “No, Mom! Don’t let them!” It was harrowing. But that moment was the start of a journey that shaped who I am today.

My parents pushed me to take responsibility early. They encouraged me to participate in the fundraising walks every year and helped me learn how to manage my health and make good food choices. I also attended diabetes camp through the American Diabetes Association at Camp Duncan, where I met some of my closest lifelong friends, people who I call my "diabesties." 

Over the years, I’ve grown more independent, more empowered, and more connected to a community that reminds me I’m never alone in this. My diagnosis may have changed my life, but it also gave me strength, purpose, and friendships that have carried me ever since.