CHANGING THE CONVERSATION for People Living With Diabetes
Courtney was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes on June 24, 2011, at 21 years old while traveling in Italy. She became very sick, losing 34 pounds in just two weeks, and returned home weighing 99 pounds. While the diagnosis was frightening, there was relief knowing it was diabetes and not something more serious. Being diagnosed later in life was especially challenging, as Courtney had to adjust to a completely new way of living after knowing life without illness.
The biggest changes early on were daily injections and carrying supplies everywhere. In 2025, she switched to an insulin pump, which brought both freedom and new fears, including low blood sugars, device issues, and unexpected Dexcom alarms. In 2019, while 33 weeks pregnant, Courtney experienced life-threatening DKA with normal blood sugar levels, resulting in hospitalization and the premature birth of her daughter. Both overcame the experience and are doing well today, though the fear remains a lasting part of her journey.
Now a proud mom to a six-year-old, Courtney’s daughter understands diabetes and knows how to help if needed. Courtney enjoys life fully, from shopping trips to sushi dates filled with carbs. She believes diabetes gets easier with time and does not need to turn life upside down. It is challenging, but it is not a burden—and it does not define her.
#PumpCoutureFashionShow #ChangeTheConversation #StopTheStigma
