Advisory Committee
Bringing Camp1 Inspiration and Best Practices
Michael Laskey
Advisory Committee Member
Michael, an Iowa State Cyclone, was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) at just 18 months old in 2002. Despite his condition, he hasn't let it stop him from pursuing his passions. Michael began advocating for T1D after attending ADA's Camp Discovery as a child. He now participates in JDRF Walks, shares T1D tips on stage, and is involved in Riding On Insulin, a camp for skiing and snowboarding. An enthusiastic snowboarder, hiker, lacrosse player and outdoorsman, Michael encourages kids “Don’t ever let diabetes be your reason not to do something- try that sport you’ve been thinking about trying, go explore a new hiking trail, learn a new skill, just do the things you love and learn to do them with diabetes!”
William Laskey
Advisory Committee Member
William is a drummer and songwriter from Nashville. He went to Belmont University, enjoys snowboarding, and is a big Bulls fan. He also has a sibling with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). William learned about the T1D community from various events like ADA Camp Discovery and JDRF Walks. In 2021, he was diagnosed with Generalized Epilepsy. Drawing from his T1D experience, he now raises awareness about seizures. “You should never be afraid or ashamed to speak out about your situation. Whether it's proudly advocating or simply sharing it with your peers, there is always someone who will appreciate you sharing your story, if you know it or not.”
Grace Macabobby
Advisory Committee Member
Grace studies at the University of Minnesota and likes going to concerts, running, and exploring the city using public transportation with friends. She was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age three but it hasn't stopped her. She used to go to ADA’s Camp Discovery during summers and loved it. Grace participates in JDRF One Walks with friends and family. In high school, she was a JDRF Youth Ambassador, supporting JDRF's advocacy, fundraising, and volunteer work. Grace aims to show kids that diabetes shouldn't limit them but can connect them to a supportive community.
Liz Doyle
Advisory Committee Member
Liz Doyle is a third-year dietetics student at Iowa State University. Diagnosed with type one diabetes at age 12, she joins JDRF walks, education events, and bike rides. Liz and her mom began participating in JDRF bike rides in La Crosse, Wisconsin, three years ago. Advocating for T1D is Liz's top priority. She also competes in basketball, volleyball, and soccer as a triathlete in college, showing that having T1D doesn't hinder her active lifestyle and passion for food.
Tess Anderson
Advisory Committee Member
Tess, a grad student at Davenport University studying Occupational Therapy, was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at 8. Eager to meet others after her hospital visit, her mom's support group connected her with kids at an ADA day camp. There, she made friends, learned important lessons, and had a great time. The camp's support deeply impacted her life, leading her to volunteer as a camp counselor at health and foster camps. Tess also advocates for diabetes-related initiatives by meeting with state and federal lawmakers. For nine years, she has captained Team Tess in the Tour de Cure cycling event and served as the Ride to Camp ambassador for the ADA. Her goal is to inspire children with Type 1 Diabetes to achieve great things, combining her OT knowledge with her T1D journey. Tess sees camp as a life-changing experience.