BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Founder, Samantha Merwin’s son, Saige, was diagnosed at 17 months old with type 1 diabetes. With little support readily accessible, the Merwin Family made a commitment to change the course for other newly diagnosed families by providing education resources and building community.

In addition to T1D, Saige was diagnosed with food allergies at a young age as well as Celiac disease at age 12. To ensure his safety, he greeted people with “elbow bumps” rather than shaking hands. Doctors and friends called him the “elbow bump kid” and the name stuck creating this movement.

Elbowbumpkid Inc (EBK) was formed officially in 2019. Proudly, each year EBK grows in the number of individuals reached and the volume of programming offered much to the satisfaction of those that are part of this community.

Our Board, program managers & ambassadors are all volunteers that lead from the heart and power this impact. EBK wouldn't exist without the dedication, commitment and expertise of these individuals. Each of them has unique and lived experience in breaking down barriers in support of equal access for those living with T1D.

Samantha Merwin

PRESIDENT

I'm Samantha (Sam). My son Saige (Elbowbumpkid) was diagnosed with T1D when he was 17 months old. Since then, our family has been fundraising and raising awareness about Type 1 Diabetes, and celebrated 10 years thriving with Type 1 in July 2018. We also love traveling to explore new places, running races together and binge watching Netflix.

Our family has always been active in the diabetes community. Since 2008 we have fundraised over $100,000 for various T1D nonprofits. I also love planning social events to connect the the Type 1 community and support the nonprofits that help these kids thrive with T1D.

Connor Parkinson

GENERAL CONSULTANT / AI EXPERT

I'm Connor. I'm from Massachusetts and was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at 24. Since then, I've made it my mission to learn everything I can about T1D and to use that knowledge to help others in the T1D community. Not long after my diagnosis, I began volunteering with Elbowbumpkid, where I've seen firsthand the amazing impact the organization is having - something I am proud to contribute to.

Outside of that, I love Boston sports (go Pats!), cooking, running, and traveling.

Michele Perriolat

CLINICAL REVIEW COMMITTEE LEAD

I'm Michele Perriolat, RDN, CDCES, and I'm excited to be joining the Elbowbump team. My entire career has been dedicated to supporting people with diabetes, with positions at Beth Israel Hospital, Bristol Hospital, Medtronic Inc, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, and currently as the Senior Clinical Diabetes Specialist at Sequel Med Tech.

During my time at CCMC, I had the opportunity to collaborate with Elbowbump to bring impactful programs to our community. I'm thrilled to continue that connection and contribute to the incredible work this organization is doing.

Kaylyn Wark

COMMUNICATION ARCHITECT / SECRETARY

Hi! I'm Kaylyn, mama to two sweet kiddos (Audrey and Caroline) from central CT. My daughter, Audrey, was diagnosed Type 1 in 2022 when she was 9 years old. We were fortunate to find Elbowbumpkid pretty shortly after her diagnosis. Audrey loves attending events and hanging out with other kids who ride the Type 1 rollercoaster. We have found the community and connection that Elbowbumpkid provides to be so beneficial for our whole family.

I'm passionate about learning more about all aspects of T1D and helping T1s and their families thrive, as well as sharing what I learn with anyone willing to listen. I'm looking forward to being able to aid future EBK families in every way I can!

Koran Iskra

EDITORIAL & COMMUNICATIONS ADVISOR / STRATEGIC CONSULTANT

I'm Koran Iskra. My hubby, 2 kids and pup reside outside Boston where we an often be found outside, listening to live music or cheering for our favorite teams. I love to try to learn new things.

I'm honored to be supporting EBK. Close friends have been impacted by T1D and I believe that both education and connection are critical components to living well with the diagnosis. Sam and her team are inspirational, committed and fierce advocates. I'm excited be be part of this chapter with EBK.

Meg Bisson

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS FOR YOUNGER KIDS / CAREGIVER PROGRAM

I'm Meghan. I am a mom to twin boys, Willie and Teddy. Willie was diagnosed with T1D about a year and a half ago at the age of five. We found Elbowbumpkid pretty early on and felt really lucky this organization existed in our area! We quickly realized how important the T1D community is not only for Willie, but our whole family. We love to go to events where everyone understands living with T1D. I am beyond excited to be here and help cultivate this already amazing EBK community.

In addition to EBK, I wear a lot of hats. I am a special education teacher, a yoga and meditation teacher and I photograph weddings. In my free time, you can most likely find me doing something outside like hiking or kayaking with my boys.

I am so happy to be here!

Saige Merwin

MEMBER

I'm Saige Merwin, aka the Elbowbumpkid. I was diagnosed with T1D at 17 months old and have been managing it in conjunction with my busy life since. My family has devoted a lot of time over the years to volunteer work for T1D and while I was excited in 2019 to have a nonprofit named after me, I'm even more excited to join the Executive Board and help. Over the years I have been fortunate enough to experience so many T1D programs thanks to our community and look forward to many more years of connecting with my peers.

I like working with computers, skiing, skateboarding, and I play tennis on my high school team.

I'm proud to be the #elbowbumpkid!

Megan Fragola

CRM / WEBSITE EXPERT

Hi! My name is Megan Fragola, and I'm currently based in New York City. My partner, Connor, was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in October 2021. Since then, we've fundraised and volunteered together for Breakthrough T1D and Elbowbumpkid, and I officially joined the EBK board in August 2026.

I was born on Long Island, NY, and grew up in Akron, Ohio. I earned my bachelor's degree in Business Administration, with a minor in Nonprofit Management, from Pepperdine University. I currently work remotely as a project manager in the construction and nonprofit sectors, where my experience in the nonprofit sector has made me an expert in data management, an excellent fit to help grow EBK's reach and impact. Outside of work, I love to travel and explore new cultures through food.

I'm excited to serve EBK families and help this community continue to grow!