How a Palo Alto Student is Revolutionizing Health Tech: The Power of Persistence

When Myra Saxena was just 8 years old, she began learning to code. Some thought she was too young. But Myra didn’t listen. She followed her own motto: “Never give up, even if people say you can’t do it.” Now, she’s developing an award-winning health app.

Recently, Myra showcased her app, “Healthy Littles powered by SmartGenes,” at the National Invention Convention. Out of 200,000 applicants, she was one of the few chosen. This app aims to prevent Type 2 diabetes in children—a cause close to her heart after losing her grandfather to the disease.

Myra’s journey has been long. She developed her app over several years, creating multiple prototypes along the way. Her first version offered exercise videos and healthy recipes. Later, she added educational material about body structure and tracking dietary macros.

Each step fueled her passion. After presenting at a school convention, her confidence grew. She moved to a regional event and was eventually selected for the national competition.

As she refined her app, Myra learned that understanding genetic risks for diabetes in kids was essential. She created a wearable device, SmartGenes, that uses pulse sensors to track health data and assess a child’s diabetes risk.

Myra tested her invention with over 100 people, including pediatric diabetes expert Dr. Risa Wolfe. She praised Myra as an “amazing, entrepreneurial child” who embodies kindness and philanthropy.

Myra’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. At the World Series of Innovation Imagination League Challenge, she won first place among elementary school innovators. Her vision doesn’t stop there; she’s eager to expand her app and help other students learn about invention.

Currently, Myra is collaborating with Brenda Payne from the California Invention Convention to launch a regional program. This initiative aims to inspire young inventors in her community. Throughout sixth grade, she plans to lead this effort, reaching out to local schools and educators.

Today, Myra’s journey stands as a testament to determination. Her story illustrates that with passion and persistence, any young person can make a meaningful impact.



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