About Diabetes Network of Arizona
Empowering individuals and families impacted by diabetes through education, connection, and community-driven support.
The Diabetes Network of Arizona is a nonprofit organization built by people who understand life with diabetes firsthand. We exist to ensure no one faces a diagnosis alone by providing accessible education, meaningful resources, and a strong, supportive community across Arizona.
Built by Those Who Understand Diabetes
Living with diabetes impacts far more than physical health. It affects confidence, daily routines, relationships, and the sense of security people feel navigating their lives. Yet too often, individuals and families are left to manage that journey without consistent education, accessible resources, or a supportive community.
The Diabetes Network of Arizona was built by people who understand diabetes firsthand. Our organization was created to bridge the gap between diagnosis and day-to-day living by offering education, connection, and real-world support rooted in shared experience.
We believe understanding changes outcomes. When people feel informed, supported, and connected to others who truly understand their journey, they are better equipped to live well with diabetes. Everything we do is grounded in that belief by meeting people where they are and supporting the whole person, not just a diagnosis.
Today, the Diabetes Network of Arizona serves individuals and families across the state, creating spaces for education, empowerment, and community at every stage of the diabetes journey.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Tara Krajnak, BSN, CPEN
President & Executive Director
With more than 30 years of lived experience with Type 1 diabetes, Tara leads the organization with both clinical knowledge and personal insight. As a pediatric nurse, she is deeply committed to education, youth programs, and community-centered support.
Becky McMillian, LMSW
Vice President & Special Events Director
Becky brings a strong foundation in social work alongside more than 30 years of lived experience with Type 1 diabetes. Her work centers on youth, families, and creating meaningful community connections through programs and events.
John Krajnak
Treasurer
Combining financial oversight with hands-on service, John contributes both leadership and lived experience to the board. A firefighter and paramedic living with Type 1 diabetes for over 20 years, he has long supported medical and youth-focused diabetes programs.
Edward Perrin, MD
Board Member
A physician with decades of experience in diabetes care, Dr. Perrin has also lived with Type 1 diabetes for more than 50 years. His perspective bridges clinical expertise and personal experience, strengthening the organization’s commitment to informed, compassionate care.
For Opie
Opie was a cherished member of the Diabetes Network of Arizona community whose life embodied connection, resilience, and joy. Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at a young age, he grew up surrounded by others who understood his journey and quickly became a source of encouragement for those around him.
From camper to counselor, Opie found a second home in the diabetes community. He had a unique ability to make people feel seen, supported, and included, and his presence helped shape the culture of care and belonging that continues to define this organization today.
Opie’s impact lives on through the relationships he built and the community he helped strengthen. His story continues to inspire everything we do and reminds us why connection matters.
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Volunteer With Us
Volunteers are the heart of everything we do.
From camps and community events to education and family support, our volunteers help create spaces where people living with diabetes feel understood, supported, and never alone.
Whether you live with diabetes, support someone who does, or simply want to give back, there is a place for you here. Together, we continue the legacy of connection and care that defines our community.
Bailee Perreault,
BSN, RN
Development Director
Bailee brings nearly a decade of nursing experience and a deep passion for supporting individuals and families living with diabetes. With years of service as Diabetes Camp medical staff, she is dedicated to strengthening community connection and access to support.
Bruna Presz
School Programs Director
Bruna brings over a decade of experience in special education and instructional coaching, alongside personal insight as a parent of a child with Type 1 diabetes. She is deeply committed to helping families and schools create supportive, effective 504 plans.
Michelle Hunter, FNP, BSN, RN
Public Health Director
Michelle is driven to create environments where individuals and families feel empowered, understood, and never alone. With extensive experience in pediatric ER, ICU care, and diabetes camp medical staff, she brings both clinical expertise and heartfelt advocacy to the community.
Beth Douthitt
Volunteer Advocate
Beth brings over 20 years of lived experience as a parent of a child with Type 1 diabetes, offering trusted guidance to families navigating school support systems. A retired public school educator, she now advocates for parents and mentors teachers across Arizona.
Zach Meeker-Hackett
Camp Director
Zach has lived with Type 1 diabetes for over 20 years and has been part of the diabetes camp community for just as long. His leadership is rooted in lived experience, connection, and a deep commitment to creating safe, empowering camp environments.
Isabella Small
Youth Connect Events Director
Isabella leads Youth Connect with energy, creativity, and purpose, building inclusive events for teens and young adults. Inspired by her and her sister’s shared journey with Type 1 diabetes, she is passionate about fostering connection and belonging.
Josh Silverman
Technology Lead
Josh brings over 15 years of lived experience with Type 1 diabetes and a strong passion for diabetes technology. A longtime diabetes camp counselor and tech enthusiast, he helps bridge innovation and real-world support for the community.
Volunteers & Program Leaders
Our volunteers and program leaders are an essential part of our mission, bringing lived experience, professional expertise, and deep commitment to the diabetes community.
FAQ'S
The Diabetes Network of Arizona is a community-driven non-profit organization committed to supporting individuals living with Type 1 diabetes. Our mission is to create a year-round support network crafted by diabetics, for diabetics, offering empowerment, resources, and a sense of community.
The Diabetes Network of Arizona welcomes individuals of all ages, including kids, adults, and teens, as well as their families, caregivers, and medical professionals. Our community is open to anyone affected by diabetes.
We host a variety of events and meetups, including monthly gatherings tailored for kids, families, caregivers, adults (21+), and teens (13-17). Additionally, we organize special activities such as yoga, golfing, and biking for charity throughout the year, creating opportunities for social connection and support.
While our primary focus is on Type 1 diabetes, we warmly welcome and support anyone affected by diabetes. Our community is built on inclusivity, understanding, and shared experiences.
Stay updated on all our events and activities by subscribing to our newsletter, following us on social media, and regularly checking our website. We keep our community informed through these channels to ensure everyone has access to the latest information.
The Diabetes Network of Arizona offers educational resources, support networks, and a collaborative environment to help individuals manage and navigate life with Type 1 diabetes. Explore our website for valuable information and connect with our community for personalized support.
Supporting our mission is easy! Visit the "Donate" section on our website to make a financial contribution. Your donations help sustain and grow our organization, enabling us to provide ongoing support and resources to the diabetes community.
Currently, there are no membership fees to join the Diabetes Network of Arizona's community. We believe in making our support and resources accessible to everyone in need.