Meet the 2022 Walk & Roll Ambassador, Juan Diego!

If you’ve ever participated in Gillette’s annual Walk & Roll event, you’ve probably seen Team Juan Diego. Juan Diego Pedevila is a 12-year-old from Woodbury, MN with a joyful demeanor and a magnetizing presence-which works out well for someone who loves being around people. Juan Diego has an H3F3A mutation, which impacts his ability to walk, talk and use his hands.  

Since he and his family first participated in Gillette’s annual Walk & Roll event five years ago, the number of family, friends and community members who have joined him in support has continued to grow. This year, Juan Diego is Gillette’s Walk & Roll ambassador, putting him and his team at the heart of this annual event.  

Walk & Roll is on September 24 with in-person and virtual participation options. Every dollar raised during the event goes directly to support Gillette’s mission to redefine what is possible for children with brain, bone and movement conditions. This year brings an exciting venue change, with participants gathering at Vikings Lakes in Eagan for movement and fun. Gillette patients, families and supporters will also come together in neighborhoods and parks throughout the country to walk and move virtually. 

“Juan Diego enjoys Walk & Roll so much,” says his mom, Claudia Sweatt. “It’s fun for him to have a day where he’s the most important person.” 

Claudia also appreciates the shift in perception the event brings. “All of the people who surround Juan Diego see him in a different light at Walk & Roll,” she noted. “The event celebrates people with disabilities. We’re together and having fun, and people see that disabilities aren’t something to be afraid of.”