Quinn Nystrom

Quinn Nystrom is a speaker, patient advocate, and author whose work focuses on type 1 diabetes awareness and education. Nystrom began her advocacy when her younger brother was diagnosed with diabetes, and her commitment deepened following her own diagnosis at age 13. Her early experiences at diabetes camps and with other young people living with the disease influenced her dedication to improving the lives of those affected by diabetes.

At 16, Nystrom served as the National Youth Advocate for the American Diabetes Association, participating in a national speaking tour. She was also the youngest recipient of the ADA Star Award for her fundraising efforts. Over her career, Nystrom has shared her experiences with type 1 diabetes to more than 300,000 people across North America. As a National Diabetes Ambassador for Center for Change and a council member for the Minnesota Council of Disability, she advocates for individuals living with diabetes and disabilities.

Nystrom is the author of "If I Kiss You, Will I Get Diabetes?" The book provides a first-hand account of living with a chronic illness and offers insights for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals into a teen's perspective on diabetes. She has also addressed the intersection of type 1 diabetes and eating disorders, contributing to conversations in both the diabetes and mental health communities.

Beyond public speaking, Nystrom leads the Minnesota chapter of Insulin4All, working to provide insulin to those in need. She ran for Congress to address insulin affordability and served as the youngest member elected to the Baxter City Council. Nystrom has received the ADA Advocacy Award and was named one of the Ten Outstanding Young Americans by the Jaycees.

Nystrom holds a degree from Hope College and a Master of Science in Communication Management from Syracuse University. Her work has been featured on XM Radio, in Glamour Magazine, MSN, Diabetes Forecast, Reader's Digest, and The Learning Channel. Through her organization Qspeak, Nystrom continues to speak, advocate, write, consult, and raise funds for diabetes, focusing on chronic illness management and patient advocacy.