In this heartfelt letter, Elizabeth Forrest—founder of Touched by Type 1 and someone diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a child—shares encouragement and perspective for parents navigating their child’s recent diagnosis, reminding them they’re not alone.

After being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at just ten years old, Elizabeth Forrest faced a lifetime of unknowns. Now, years later, she reflects on the lessons she wishes she could share with her younger self—and with anyone navigating a new T1D diagnosis.

At ten years old, Elizabeth Forrest was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes—and her world changed overnight. What began as a backyard dance performance to raise awareness eventually grew into Touched by Type 1, empowering thousands to thrive with T1D.