Sophie: Type 1 Diabetes Success Story
Sophie was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) shortly after her 11th birthday just weeks after beginning 6th grade. As a teenager, she experienced diabetes burnout and grew tired of the constant demands of wearing an insulin pump and managing T1D every day. With support from a behavioral therapist, she worked through those struggles and gained a deeper understanding of the importance of consistent care. At one point, she took a short break from her pump and switched to insulin injections, but quickly realized how much the pump helped her manage her diabetes effectively.
Over time, Sophie became more confident in managing diabetes on her own terms. She works closely with her diabetes care team to adjust her pump settings and insulin ratios based on the demands of daily life. She values their collaborative approach and appreciates that her providers consider her overall health, routine and priorities when reviewing her continuous glucose monitor and pump data.
Support and community have played a powerful role in Sophie’s journey. Soon after her diagnosis, she attended a diabetes program at the Barton Center, where meeting other children living with T1D helped her realize she was not alone. She spent several summers at the Barton Camp in Oxford, MA, and eventually stepped into a leadership role, building friendships and connections that continue to support her.
Through leadership and volunteer work, Sophie has supported young people across New England, helping them feel less isolated and more confident in managing their condition. She encourages anyone with diabetes to surround themselves with a strong support system who understand the condition and know how to respond in an emergency. Sophie’s story is a reminder that while diabetes can feel overwhelming at times, personalized care, community and support can make a lasting difference.