CHANGING THE CONVERSATION for People Living With Diabetes
Bahar was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) at 11 years old. At first, she felt overwhelmed and did not realize how much it would change her life. Looking back, she laughs at the journal she kept at SickKids Hospital, where she called insulin “insulence.” She remembers giving her first injection with her mom by her side, then crying afterward, thinking about doing it every day. Over time, she realized injections are one of the easier parts of diabetes—something she never would have believed then.
One of Bahar’s biggest challenges is the constant mental load. The daily decision-making is exhausting, and even during moments meant for relaxation, like meditation classes, she finds it hard to fully let go, worrying about her blood sugar and alarms.
Living with T1D has made Bahar stronger, more resilient, and compassionate. It has taught her to adapt through hard and unpredictable moments and deepened her understanding that many people carry invisible struggles. Her relationship with diabetes shifts day to day—some days feel frustrating and relentless, while other days she recognizes the strength it has given her. She is now entering an exciting new chapter, expecting her first baby boy.
Bahar attended D-Camp in Ontario for three years and cherishes the experience. One unforgettable memory was winning the “Haha” award after accidentally falling into the lake during a canoe trip. She highly recommends D-Camps, sharing how validating it is to be surrounded by others who truly understand. She later returned to camp as a volunteer after becoming a Registered Nurse.
Bahar is modeling in the Pump Couture Fashion Show to raise awareness and show that diabetes does not define or limit her. She hopes to remind others that they are strong and capable.
#PumpCoutureFashionShow #ChangeTheConversation #StopTheStigma
