The Future of Diabetes Care is Reimagined at Summer Fun 2025
The 2025 Naomi Berrie Diabetes Center Summer Fun Program was filled with exciting activities—bowling, rock climbing, a tour of Major League Baseball headquarters, and most memorably, a camper-led version of the popular reality show Shark Tank.
For one week in July, 25 campers between the ages of 8-12 brainstormed diabetes invention ideas in small groups, sketched designs, built physical models, and finally pitched their creations to doctors and proud parents.
The inventions were imaginative, playful, and very practical. Model Magic became lightweight, dumpling-shaped insulin pumps, while pipe cleaners turned into flexible glucose sensor attachments that could cling to the body without piercing the skin—almost like a little jumping spider. Blood sugar monitors were reimagined as customizable, like Zoe’s “Dexcom G8,” which gave patients the option to choose both the color and even a scent. Many campers designed pump-and-sensor combinations that were smaller, longer-lasting, and easier to use—a recurring theme in their ideas.
What made this project so powerful was that it gave the kids a chance to take the lead in imagining ways to make life with diabetes easier. Type 1 diabetes (T1D) may not be in their control, but through Shark Tank, campers explored how they might shape a future where managing it feels less overwhelming.
When asked if he enjoyed the project, eight-year-old Thane grinned and said, “Yes, because it’s not something that everyone would do as a normal camp project.” Building on that thought, Sonali and Laila reflected on how the experience could inspire campers beyond the summer: “They can see if they would like to do anything like this in real life. What sets kids apart from most adults is the fact that they are not wired to think of all the reasons why an invention may not work.”
During this special week, the campers showed that they are the ones who will push the boundaries of what’s possible in diabetes care.
Dr. Rachelle Gandica, who was one of the judges, had important advice for the budding entrepreneurs. “Pay attention in your science classes because you will learn how to bring these amazing ideas to life and grow up to invent them!”
So look out—the future is in good hands, and these campers have plenty of big ideas still to come.
-Maddie Fishbach is a guest writer who is in her senior year at Rye Brook High School. She has written about her brother Carter who lives with type 1 diabetes.
The Naomi Berrie Diabetes Center Summer Fun Program is not only a joyful and empowering experience for children with type 1 diabetes, but also a vital program made possible through the generosity of our supporters, whose donations help ensure its continued success. Click here to donate.