Why Type 1 Diabetes Awareness Month Matters & How to Get Involved as a Family
Every November, families, advocates, and organizations come together to recognize Type 1 Diabetes Awareness Month. It’s a time to spread the word about what Type 1 diabetes really is, educate the public, and raise support for the millions of children and adults living with this condition. But why does this month matter so much? And how can families get involved to make a difference? Let’s dive in.
What Is Type 1 Diabetes Awareness Month?
Type 1 Diabetes Awareness Month happens every November, with World Diabetes Day taking place on November 14th. This date was chosen in honor of Dr. Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin back in 1921. It’s a month dedicated to sharing the realities of living with Type 1 diabetes and advocating for better understanding, care, and resources.
Organizations like JDRF, Beyond Type 1, and others lead campaigns to increase awareness and raise funds for research. But it’s also a chance for families to come together and help their communities understand what life with Type 1 diabetes is truly like.
Why Awareness Is So Important
Unfortunately, Type 1 diabetes is still widely misunderstood. Many people don’t realize that it’s an autoimmune condition—not caused by diet or lifestyle choices—and that those with Type 1 diabetes need insulin to survive every single day.
Common misconceptions include:
Confusing Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
Believing Type 1 can be reversed or cured through lifestyle changes.
Thinking children with Type 1 diabetes shouldn’t eat sweets (spoiler: they can, as long as it’s managed with insulin).
Raising awareness isn’t just about correcting these myths. It’s also about building empathy, improving school accommodations, and advocating for research funding to make life easier for kids and adults with Type 1 diabetes. When more people understand the reality of Type 1 diabetes, it leads to better support systems, more inclusion, and hopefully, more breakthroughs in research.
Celebrating & Spreading Awareness as a Family
Getting involved in Type 1 Diabetes Awareness Month can be empowering for your child and help them feel connected to a larger community. Here are some fun, meaningful ways to celebrate and spread awareness:
Storytelling:
Sharing your child’s story—whether through social media posts, videos, or even blog articles—can have a huge impact. Not only does it help educate others, but it also shows your child they are not alone. It’s about creating understanding and connection.
School Presentations:
Work with your child’s teacher to create a fun and informative presentation for their class. Kids often feel better when their peers understand what they’re going through. Plus, it’s a great opportunity for your child to be their own advocate.
Art & Creativity:
Encourage your child to express their experience with Type 1 diabetes through art. Drawings, poems, or even short stories can be powerful ways to help them process their feelings and share their perspective with others.
Walks & Fundraisers:
Participating in events like JDRF Walks or hosting local fundraisers can be a wonderful way to bring people together for a common cause. And it helps raise money for important research at the same time.
Wear Blue:
The official color for diabetes awareness is blue. Wearing blue throughout November and especially on World Diabetes Day (November 14th) is a simple but effective way to show support and spark conversations.
Encouraging Understanding & Support
Having open, age-appropriate conversations about Type 1 diabetes can be so helpful for your child. Encouraging them to explain their condition to friends or classmates (when they feel comfortable) can promote understanding and empathy. As parents, advocating for your child’s needs at school and in public spaces is key.
Building a strong network of support can make all the difference. Whether it’s connecting with other parents through online communities or participating in local events, the sense of community can be so uplifting.
Resources & Ideas to Get Involved
Support organizations like Breakthrough T1D, Beyond Type 1, or even smaller grassroots groups.
Share your story on social media using hashtags like #T1DAwarenessMonth or #BlueNovember.
Get involved in online challenges, create awareness videos, or host local events.
And of course, encourage other parents and families to check out my book, The Type 1 Life, which offers practical tips for building a happy, fulfilling life beyond just managing diabetes.
Conclusion
Type 1 Diabetes Awareness Month is about more than just wearing blue or posting online. It’s about coming together to spread truth, empathy, and support. It’s about showing the world that Type 1 diabetes is real, it’s serious, and it deserves attention.
Whether you’re living with Type 1 diabetes or supporting someone who is, every small action counts. And as you share your journey, remember: You’re not alone. Let’s keep raising awareness—not just this month, but every day.
Want more tips, resources, and encouragement? Grab a copy of The Type 1 Life and join the conversation. Your story matters.
