emerson trottier

CHANGING THE CONVERSATION for People Living With Diabetes

Emerson was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) at just 14 months old. It took two visits to the ER before doctors realized what was really happening.

For Emerson and his family, diabetes awareness means helping end the stigma around T1D and educating others on what living with it truly looks like. Managing diabetes is a 24/7 job — there are no breaks or days off. It takes a village of support at home, at school, and in everyday life.

Awareness also means correcting misconceptions. Type 1 diabetes is not caused by eating poorly, and it is not something you can “catch.” T1D is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks the pancreas, leaving it unable to produce insulin — a hormone the body needs to survive.

And yes, Emerson can absolutely eat cake and ice cream. He just needs insulin to help his body process it.

Emerson is no stranger to Pump Couture. He has proudly modeled in the fashion show for the past two years and cannot wait to hit the runway again this year. For him, Pump Couture is more than just a fashion show — it is a chance to help raise money for D-Camps, meet other kids living with diabetes, and be part of a day filled with energy, community, and pride.

Although Emerson lives with T1D every day, he approaches life with confidence, humour, and resilience. As he proudly says:

“My pancreas isn’t like others — mine is manual.”

#PumpCoutureFashionShow #ChangeTheConversation #StopTheStigma