CHANGING THE CONVERSATION for People Living With Diabetes
Isabelle was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) on July 28, 2022, when she was just 11 years old. Her diagnosis began in an unexpected way, through an act of love and encouragement for her Granny, who lives with type 2 diabetes. During weekly visits, Isabelle and her sister checked their blood sugar levels alongside her Granny to help motivate her. Each time, Isabelle’s numbers were much higher than anyone else’s. After noticing the pattern over several weeks, her mom booked an appointment with their family doctor.
Blood work confirmed what no one had expected. Isabelle was diagnosed with T1D and sent directly to the hospital. Because it was caught early, she avoided diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening complication. Isabelle spent one night in the hospital with her mom, starting insulin and learning what this new reality would mean. She remembers feeling scared and confused, but also remembers getting through it together as a family.
Once home, managing diabetes became a shared mission. While it initially felt like her world had turned upside down, Isabelle slowly came to understand that this was not the end of her story, but the beginning of a new chapter.
Living with diabetes means constant planning and awareness. Isabelle balances blood sugar management with school, friendships, and activities. During busy school days, her blood sugar can drop while moving between classes, sometimes forcing her to stop and treat a low while others keep going. Social situations bring added challenges, especially as Isabelle also lives with celiac disease. Food options are not always safe, and extra walking or timing changes require careful blood sugar management.
Sports are another area where preparation is essential. Isabelle plays academy volleyball, and physical activity impacts her blood sugar levels. With her dad’s support at games and practices, she is able to play safely and confidently.
Living with T1D has shaped Isabelle into someone who is strong, responsible, and resilient. She has learned discipline, problem solving, and self-advocacy at a young age. Diabetes has also inspired her to become a passionate advocate. She wants to help normalize medical devices, raise awareness, and show other kids that diabetes does not limit who they are or what they can achieve.
Something unique about Isabelle is her commitment to giving back. She started a small candle-making business with her sister, learning creativity, teamwork, and responsibility. Together, they also launched a community initiative to collect new underwear for their local Compassion Society, placing donation bags throughout their city and collecting hundreds of items to support people in need. Isabelle is proud to use her time and platform to make a difference.
Isabelle is modeling in the Pump Couture Fashion Show to use her voice and visibility to help change how diabetes is seen and understood. She wants others to know that devices save lives and should never be hidden, and that living with diabetes requires courage, learning, and self-confidence.
Her message to anyone newly diagnosed is honest and empowering. It is hard, and it is okay to admit that. Take it day by day, ask questions, advocate for yourself, and never stop learning. You are capable, resilient, and never alone.
#PumpCoutureFashionShow #ChangeTheConversation #StopTheStigma
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