CHANGING THE CONVERSATION for People Living With Diabetes
Ellie was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) on February 9, 2023, a day that changed her life forever. The first few days in the hospital were stressful and scary, and everything felt unfamiliar. Ellie was already naturally shy, and after her diagnosis she became even more reserved as she tried to process what was happening and what life with diabetes would mean.
Over time, one experience helped Ellie begin to feel like herself again. Attending D-Camps helped her come out of her shell and put herself out there more. Camp became one of the best experiences she has ever had, especially after learning of her diagnosis. It was a place where she felt understood, included, and supported in a way she had never experienced before.
Ellie loves playing volleyball and spending time with friends. Like many people living with diabetes, one of her biggest challenges is being hard on herself, especially when blood sugar levels go high or low in public. She has learned that diabetes is not always predictable and blood sugar levels are not always perfect, and that is okay. Living with T1D has helped Ellie grow in confidence and self-compassion, even on the tough days.
Ellie is proud of how she manages her diabetes, and she has big dreams for her future. She aspires to become an endocrinologist one day, so she can help others the way her care team has helped her. She also dreams of traveling to California.
Ellie is modeling in the Pump Couture Fashion Show to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and help fundraise to send more kids to D-Camps. She hopes her story reminds others that they are not alone, and that even the hardest days can get better.
#PumpCoutureFashionShow #ChangeTheConversation #StopTheStigma
