Dana Lewis, USA

Video interview with Dana
Watch the video interview with Dana telling about her life with diabetes and how she has learned to cope with the condition - access here (9:47 min.)

About Dana
Dana Lewis, 19, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 14. She is committed to making a difference for young people with diabetes through her work with the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF).

The Huntsville, Alabama native has seen a lot of changes in the world of diabetes. New technologies, new doctors, new theories on how to control the disease – navigating the information can be tough, and Dana became involved with the ADA to reach out to other young people for support and advice.

That got the ball rolling, and Dana set up a teen diabetes support group. She was soon appointed National Youth Advocate for the ADA, speaking at various events and promoting awareness of youth diabetes issues. But Dana didn’t stop there. She also helped create the ADA youth message board and serves on the National Youth Strategies committee. Dana is also proud of her work as an IDF Youth Ambassador and her role in driving the adoption of the UN Resolution on Diabetes.

Why she’s involved in DAWN Youth
Dana is driven by the desire to involve young people in the fight against diabetes. “I became involved with DAWN Youth because I believe it is important for youth to speak out on living with diabetes. Successfully dealing with diabetes takes more than balancing insulin, food, and exercise – it takes a lot of support and a positive attitude.”

Dana’s advice to others
“I think that it is important to never give up. Never give up hope that a cure will be found in our lifetime. Never give up on taking care of ourselves while we look for a cure. Most importantly, never give up on living a wonderful life filled with lots of interesting adventures and experiences!”