
CHANGING THE CONVERSATION for People Living With Diabetes
Claire was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) when she was six years old. At the time, she did not fully understand what diabetes was, which made the diagnosis scary, confusing, and overwhelming. Learning how to manage her blood sugar meant frequent finger pokes, and her fingers were soon covered in spots from constant testing. From a young age, Claire had to adapt to a new routine that required attention, responsibility, and resilience.
Living with diabetes means Claire is constantly managing her blood sugar, counting carbohydrates, and making calculations throughout the day. She often has to explain her medical devices to others and advocate for herself, including reassuring teachers that she is taking care of her health and not simply playing games on her phone. Diabetes has challenged her daily, but it has also given her strong problem‑solving abilities and some impressive math skills. Through her diagnosis, Claire has found a supportive community of people living with diabetes in Regina, which has helped her feel less alone.
Outside of diabetes, Claire is passionate about music. She is the lead singer of a rock cover band and loves performing. Music allows her to express herself and feel confident, showing that diabetes does not limit her creativity or stage presence. Her band shares their journey on Instagram at @_cyanideband. Claire also attended LDP last summer, where she had an incredible experience. As a counselor, she learned more about managing diabetes while supporting others and made meaningful connections. The friendships she built through LDP and the diabetes community have had a lasting impact on her life.
Claire is modeling in the Pump Couture Fashion Show to raise awareness and help change the conversation around diabetes. She wants to show that living with T1D comes with challenges, but it also builds strength, leadership, and community. Diabetes is part of her story, but it does not define who she is or limit what she can achieve.
#PumpCoutureFashionShow #ChangeTheConversation #StopTheStigma




