Elizabeth Forrest Featured on Spectrum News 13 for Diabetes Awareness Month
In honor of Diabetes Awareness Month, Spectrum News 13’s “New This Morning” spotlighted Elizabeth Forrest, founder of Touched by Type 1, for her extraordinary work empowering children, families, and educators impacted by Type 1 diabetes.
What began 25 years ago as a heartfelt idea called Dancing for Diabetes has now evolved into a nationally recognized nonprofit that’s changing lives across the country.
From Diagnosis to Advocacy
Elizabeth Forrest was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes as a child — and instead of letting it define her, she turned it into her mission. What started as a small dance performance to raise awareness has become an annual sold-out show celebrating hope, education, and the power of community.
Over the last two and a half decades, Dancing for Diabetes has grown into Touched by Type 1, a multifaceted nonprofit reaching far beyond the stage.
Educating Classrooms and Caregivers
One of the most impactful initiatives Elizabeth highlighted during her Spectrum News 13 interview is Touched by Type 1’s training program for teachers and childcare providers.
These workshops help educators and caregivers better understand what it means to manage Type 1 diabetes — from recognizing warning signs of low blood sugar to supporting children in daily management tasks.
By providing this hands-on education, the organization ensures that no child living with diabetes is misunderstood or unsupported in a school or daycare setting.
The D-Box Program: Reaching Families Nationwide
Elizabeth also shared the success of The D-Box, a free care package designed for newly diagnosed children and their families. Each D-Box contains practical tools, emotional resources, and words of encouragement from others living with Type 1 diabetes.
To date, more than 15,000 D-Boxes have been shipped nationwide, helping families feel seen, supported, and less alone in the early days of diagnosis.
A Quarter Century of Hope and Impact
From a single idea in a dance studio to a national platform of awareness and support, Touched by Type 1 continues to grow while staying rooted in the same mission that started it all — to inspire those living with Type 1 diabetes to thrive.
As Elizabeth reflected on Spectrum News 13, the organization’s evolution over 25 years represents more than just growth — it represents a movement of compassion, education, and empowerment.
Learn More or Get Involved
To watch Elizabeth’s full Spectrum News 13 feature, click here.