Type 1 diabetes is often misunderstood, leading to harmful assumptions about what causes it and what daily life with the disease truly looks like. In this founder blog, Elizabeth Forrest shares some of the most common misconceptions about type 1 diabetes — and why awareness, understanding, and support matter more than ever.

Living with type 1 diabetes teaches resilience, adaptability, empathy, and purpose in ways few experiences can. This founder perspective explores the leadership lessons shaped through daily life with T1D — and how those challenges can inspire stronger communities, advocacy, and meaningful impact.

In this personal reflection, Touched by Type 1 founder Elizabeth Forrest shares the often unseen mental load of living with type 1 diabetes — from constant decision-making and emotional exhaustion to the power of finding support through community.

Living with type 1 diabetes means learning to trust your instincts, understand your body, and speak up for your needs. This founder message explores why self-advocacy is one of the most powerful skills anyone with T1D can build — in healthcare, school, work, and everyday life.

Wondering how to truly support a friend with type 1 diabetes? Meaningful support isn’t about fixing—it’s about understanding, patience, and showing up in the ways that matter most.

Type 1 diabetes is often invisible—but the effort to manage it never stops. A reflection on unseen labor, misconceptions, and why being understood matters more than being seen.

Resilience with type 1 diabetes isn’t about having it all together—it’s about showing up, even on the hard days. A personal reflection on what resilience really looks like when you live with T1D every day.

When I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at ten years old in the late 1990s, there were no CGMs, smart pumps, or online communities. What once felt isolating has now transformed into a world of real-time tech, global support, and advocacy. I’ve seen this evolution firsthand—and it gives me hope for the future of type 1 diabetes.

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.