Adversity in Storytelling Matters: Representation for the Diabetes Community

Adversity in Storytelling Matters for People with Diabetes

Adversity in storytelling matters.

It fosters greater empathy in humans.

It helps them grasp life's significant challenges, recognize that not everything revolves around them, and learn how to be better friends and community members to those who differ from them.

It encourages individuals to step out of their comfort zones and explore new perspectives, experiences, lifestyles, and identities.

It can also discuss overcoming adversity and navigating the challenges it presents, rather than becoming a victim of circumstances beyond our control.

It's important to share these stories with children as part of their upbringing, and adults benefit from them as well. We are meant to explore ideas, perspectives, and experiences beyond our own, which is crucial for our development as humans.

"Like Grandma"

Why is this on my mind today?

I recently attended an author's fair at the end of May where I showcased my children's book series, "Rosie Becomes a Warrior." There are two books in the series, available in English and Spanish. They aim to empower children with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and their families to live their happiest lives while also raising awareness of type 1 diabetes among the general public, fostering understanding of the realities of living with a chronic illness, and deepening empathy in children who aren't directly affected.

I overheard a young girl, probably 9 or 10, walking by with her mom while at the book fair. She pointed to my book and exclaimed, “Oh look, diabetes!” Then she laughed and added, “like grandma.”

Initially, I felt somewhat disheartened by the little girl’s laughter. “Really?” I thought. But then came the reframe—it reminded me precisely why I do this work.

Adversity in Storytelling Matters for the General Public, Too

I wish I had smiled and said, “You need this book!” and explained why. That encounter energized the rest of my day. I shared facts, statistics, and stories with anyone who would listen—and guess what? They did. 

“Rosie Becomes a Warrior” isn’t just for families affected by type 1 diabetes.

It’s for anyone who wants to understand this condition better, build empathy, reduce stigma, and dispel misconceptions.

People with type 2 diabetes deserve the same—less shame, more understanding. There’s more overlap between T1D and T2D than most realize. 

Stigma exists both within and outside our community. We need to support one another—to actively listen, remain curious, and lead with compassion. We’re all human beings doing our best. 

Let’s stop sharing stories about “grandma losing her toe” and start narrating stories that honor her reality. Grandma likely carried the same shame, too.

Adversity in Storytelling Can Break Down Barriers and Reduce Stigma

Stories like Rosie’s matter—not just to connect with those experiencing it, but to change the hearts of those who aren’t. On that note, "Shia Learns About Type 2 Diabetes" is a fantastic children's book that helps bridge the gap between type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It offers understanding, knowledge, and empathy, all beautifully conveyed by Shaina Hatchell, the CEO of The Brown Skin and Insulin Collective.

Rosie is for anyone who wants to deepen their empathy, comprehend chronic illness, and be part of something kinder. And there are more books that tell stories like hers! You can find a list of children's books about type 1 diabetes here. And while this is a great start, there is still a long way to go in sharing stories of adversity.

Adversity is multifaceted, and understanding it fully requires incorporating diverse perspectives, because without diverse perspectives, representation is incomplete and solutions risk being one-dimensional.

Diabetes Can Affect Anyone: No One is Excluded

Data shows that 90% of people with type 1 diabetes have no family history. Diabetes does not exclude anyone...

While this statistic might scare you, it's not meant to. It's intended to empower you with knowledge. You can take action: educate yourself so that if symptoms ever arise, you can manage them effectively. Because if I've learned anything while working in the diabetes space, it's that early detection leads to better health outcomes in your health journey.

And T1D doesn't only impact children. According to Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF), in the United States (U.S.) alone, approximately 32,000 people over the age of 20 were diagnosed with T1D in 2024. Globally, 284,000 adults over the age of 20 were diagnosed with T1D in the same year.

The prevalence of diabetes (both types) is on the rise. Those who think they don't need to be aware probably need it the most...

Certainly, there are topics I can learn more about, too, so feel free to share your recommendations! Let’s keep learning about each other and fostering more inclusive communities and worlds, one bit of knowledge at a time.