Michelle Smolarski: Juvenile Diabetes Advocate

All of 17-years-old, she is unperturbed and very well spoken for her age. “I’ve had a lot of practice over the years speaking in front of large groups,” said Michelle Smolarski.

Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of four, Smolarski is as comfortable with the microphone and the podium as she is with teen gadgets and is about to embark on the journey of a lifetime as a member of the 2011 Children’s Congress in Washington D.C. this summer.

Young Advocate

Smolarski is a spokesperson and youth ambassador for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). “Our family’s involvement with JDRF began from the time she was diagnosed,” said mom, Teri Smolarski, a regular substitute teacher at

The older Smolarski recalls that fateful day in the hospital. “It was shocking and very overwhelming at first,” she said of the chronic disease that can hit anyone, including those who have no family history. “So I decided that we could either feel powerless or do something about it.”

Seeing the diagnosis as an opportunity, Smolarski decided she could be a voice. “I’ve spoken at the Dodgers Stadium, in offices and in schools,” said the teenager.

When news reached her that she was chosen to go to in Washington D.C., she was elated. As one of three youth representatives from JDRF Los Angeles, Smolarski will be speaking with Congressional leaders about allocating more funds for diabetes research.

JDRF Chairman Mary Tyler Moore will also be at the three-day event beginning on June 20, to personally welcome the youth delegates, take part in Senate hearings and be the lead advocate.

Over 100 young people representing the 50 states are expected to be at the nation’s capital, each with a story to tell about how it is to live with type 1 diabetes that afflicts over 3 million people in the US alone.

Living Her Life

“I don’t consider myself any different from the next teenager,” said Smolarski, reflecting on the past 13 years since her diagnosis.

“Of course, I’ve had to make adjustments but nothing so tedious that would stop me from doing things,” said the young woman, who’s on her school’s dance team.

Smolarski does remember a few Halloweens when her mom told her she couldn’t have a lot of candy. She also remembers birthday parties and not being able to have a big slice of cake.

With type 1 diabetes, a person’s blood sugar has to be at a certain level so meals, social events and travel need more planning and thought than usual. “It’s a constant balancing act,” she said.

It was especially tough during middle school, that critical stage when most youngsters just want to blend in and not be too different from the pack, she said.

“She’s tough and she’s turned it around to her advantage,” said her mom, who shared that her daughter has a 4.0 GPA and is taking AP classes, just like her friends.

Smolarski swears the disease has not changed her at all. On her free time, she likes to tutor young children and spend time with her friends. “I’m still ambitious and goal-oriented,” she said.

She plans on getting on a pre-med program in college and wants to be a pediatric endocrinologist.

Putting A Face to Juvenile Diabetes

In the meantime, Smolarski will spend every spare moment between now and June 20th finishing up her junior year and preparing for the Children’s Congress. It will be her first time to visit Washington D.C. and also her first trip to the East Coast.

JDRF is in constant communication with her and the other delegates, as they write letters and schedule meetings with their lawmakers.

“She’s also writing a book on her personal story, to give to the senators and Congressional representatives she will be meeting with,” said Smolarski of her daughter. "She has so much to look forward to on this trip and in life."

 "There’s so many options and opportunities, and places for me to go,” said Michelle.

“And so much to be grateful for,” said Teri, chiming in.