Fund A Cure with Emmet Congel | Breakthrough T1D Syracuse Gala 2026

Emmet's Story

Emmett was diagnosed with Type One Diabetes on October 1, 2022.  It was a relatively unassuming morning… Emmett had a soccer game early but, due to some concerns with excessive thirst and bedwetting, We set an appointment with his pediatrician to check in on him. They did a urine sample and advised that we should immediately go to the emergency room at Upstate Golisano Hospital.

There, our worst fears were confirmed, we were told that Emmett, age 8, would be admitted for treatment related to the diagnosis of Type One diabetes.

At that very moment, time stood still, we had no idea what Type One diabetes was or even the purpose of a pancreas was. To go from such a ‘normal’ day, to such chaos was a day that we won’t soon forget.

Emmett tackles T1D like a true fighter. He does not let it stop him from doing anything. He was right back at baseball practice two days after diagnosis.  He continues to play soccer, basketball and baseball like a champ.

We remind Emmett daily that he is strong,that he is a fighter, and that God only picks the strongest warriors for the toughest battles.  That is what Emmett does every day… he fights.  Despite adversity, he perseveres through highs and lows during his games, unforeseen site failures all while silently fighting a battle that most will never understand. He is so strong, and being able to play sports keep him locked in on things he can control – being focused on his games, trying his best at everything he does and being a supportive teammate.

The medical advances have come so far in just a few short years, but until there is a cure… Emmett will just.keep.fighting.