When Kelli Costello’s son was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) at age 15 in November 2021, her family suddenly found themselves navigating a new and overwhelming reality. What began as a challenging journey soon became a mission to make a difference for others facing similar circumstances. Since her son’s diagnosis, Kelli has been passionate about supporting T1D research, creating community connections, and helping families feel less alone. She now serves as a board member for the Hudson Valley chapter and continues to be a powerful advocate for the T1D community.
In the early days following her son’s diagnosis, Kelli and her family often felt isolated. Through Breakthrough T1D events and connections with other families, they found the support, hope, and understanding they needed. Inspired by the kindness she experienced at Community Summit and local events, Kelli began organizing community walks in her area, helping other families build meaningful connections and feel part of a larger support network.
As a mother of three boys and a high school English teacher, Kelli balances many responsibilities while caring for a child with T1D. She hopes more people understand that T1D is a “minute-by-minute” disease requiring constant attention, even with today’s advanced technology. Her experience has also deepened her compassion for individuals and families living with chronic illnesses and strengthened her commitment to helping others navigate their own journeys.
Kelli says one of the most unexpected outcomes of her son’s diagnosis is that it brought their family even closer together. What she once feared might create challenges instead strengthened their bond and reminded them of the power of resilience and teamwork.
Kelli continues to stay involved because she believes shared experiences can offer hope. “When you know that someone can understand your plight, it gives you a great deal of hope,” she shares. Through fundraising, volunteering, and community leadership, she is helping create a future where every family affected by T1D feels seen, supported, and empowered.