I was sitting on a Breakthrough T1D conference call last week, when they let us in on a little secret. “Guess what?” they said. “In a few minutes, we’re about to announce the T1D Barbie.”
We all gasped. WHAT?!
Then they flashed the image on the screen, and the first thing I saw was her little pink pump and CGM.
I could feel the tears welling, and I knew instantly this wasn’t just a doll. A movement had been born.
When I was diagnosed in 1979, the book my mom was given was called “You Can’t Catch Diabetes from a Friend.” It was meant to teach my classmates that I wasn’t contagious. That was the level of education and awareness available at the time.
With this announcement, little kids around the world will get to mix and match Barbies, including one who wears a pump and CGM that look just like theirs.
It makes me want to cry again. Because this is so much more than a toy, it’s a cultural shift.
Here’s what the T1D Barbie represents:
The doll was created through a partnership between Breakthrough T1D and Mattel. In the launch video, the designer shares “This doll is about representation, about showing kids with T1D that they are strong, seen, and unstoppable.”
What does this mean?
💪 Strong: Living with T1D means handling more in a day than most people can truly comprehend. Barbie’s pump doesn’t erase the hard parts, but it reminds kids that strength can look like showing up, asking for help, learning tools, and building resilience. That is real strength.
👁️ Seen: To be seen — really seen — is one of the deepest human needs. When a child sees a doll wearing a pump or CGM like theirs, it tells them: you are not alone, your experience matters, your difference doesn’t need to be hidden and most importantly, it can be celebrated.
🚀 Unstoppable: This is the magic. T1D doesn’t have to stop your joy, your play, your dreams, or your life. When Barbie enters the room with her pink pump proudly on display, she’s saying: You can go after everything you want. You’re not behind, you’re not broken. You’re just getting started.
If you’re looking for a T1D Barbie, I’ve heard they’re temporarily sold out, but more are on the way. So hang in there.
And if you’re feeling emotional about this? Me too. It’s all valid because representation touches something raw.
And if you’re still struggling with the weight of living with diabetes… I feel that too. A doll doesn’t take away the hard. But if you’re ready for a change, I can help. Book a free consult call here. It’s just a conversation. You don’t have to do it alone.
Lauren
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