Laura Miller

CHANGING THE CONVERSATION for People Living With Diabetes

Laura was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in January 1987, at a time when her life was already full. She had a three-year-old and a six-month-old baby, and the diagnosis wasn’t just surprising — it was overwhelming and frightening. There was no family history and no warning signs. In an instant, everything changed. 

Managing type 1 diabetes in the 1980s was nothing like it is today. There were no insulin pumps and no CGMs — only syringes, multiple types of insulin, and blood glucose meters that took nearly a full minute to show a result. Carb counting felt like learning a new language overnight, and Diabetes Canada’s “Good Health Eating Guide” became her lifeline. Laura still has her original copy, because it represents just how hard those early years were. 

Living with type 1 diabetes means navigating challenges every single day — many of them invisible to others. Laura describes it as a 24/365 condition. Every bite of food, every step, every workout, every errand, even travelling to work requires planning, calculation, and constant awareness. There are no breaks. 

Over the years, Laura has also learned how type 1 diabetes can quietly impact the body. For her, the biggest impact has been on her eyes. Damage can happen long before symptoms appear, which is why regular eye exams have become essential. She also speaks honestly about the emotional toll of highs and lows, and the frustration of well-meaning people offering advice at the worst possible moments — including the classic “cure” suggestions that seem to appear out of nowhere. 

Despite the challenges, Laura’s story is rooted in strength. Living with type 1 diabetes has shaped her into someone adaptable, resilient, and deeply aware of how important support systems are. Over time, she built a trusted circle around her — family, healthcare providers, and community — because she knows managing diabetes truly takes a team. 

Her perspective deepened even further when two of her five grandchildren were also diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Watching the next generation walk a path she has lived for nearly four decades brings a mix of emotion: empathy for their challenges, pride in their strength, and gratitude that they have access to better tools and technology than she ever did. 

Outside of diabetes, Laura loves cooking with fresh, real ingredients. Music is always playing in her home, and she feels most grounded when she can get outside, get fresh air, putter in the garden, and spend time with family — the things that keep her steady and happy. 

Laura is modelling in the Pump Couture Fashion Show to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and remind people that even though type 1 diabetes changes parts of life, it does not take away dreams. 

Her message to someone newly diagnosed — or someone supporting a person living with type 1 diabetes — is full of hope: 
There is support. You are stronger than you realize. Take things one step at a time. Build a support system. Ask questions. Give yourself grace. Education and technology have come a long way, and they truly make a difference. 

#PumpCoutureFashionShow #ChangeTheConversation #StopTheStigma