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.

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!

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!