Breakthrough T1D Jacksonville Gala 2025

Aria is a 25-year-old who has lived with type 1 diabetes for 17 years, after being diagnosed at the age of seven on May 13, 2008. Her journey began with an unexpected and frightening hospitalization, but through the support of medical professionals, family, and organizations like Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF), she has transformed what initially felt like a devastating diagnosis into an empowering and enriching experience.

From her early days of struggling to understand the complexities of diabetes to her current role as an advocate for others with the condition, Aria has embraced her life-altering diagnosis and health challenges with resilience and determination. Along the way, she connected with a strong community of fellow T1D families, gaining strength, knowledge, and a sense of belonging.

As she reflects on the last 17 years, Aria celebrates her growth into a confident, disciplined, and informed individual. Type 1 diabetes may have shaped her, but it doesn’t define her. Through her journey, she has learned the importance of self-care, empathy, and perseverance, and she now strives to inspire others facing similar challenges. With the ongoing support of organizations like Breakthrough T1D, Aria continues to thrive, fostering hope, connection, and a life full of growth.