Diabetes Awareness Month: Going Beyond the Sugar Stereotypes

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and while it doesn't come with glitter or glam, it's one of the most crucial conversations we need to be having. Why? Because diabetes is common, misunderstood, and anything but simple.

Forget the sugar jokes. Forget the blame. Diabetes isn’t just about food. It’s about biology, autoimmunity, inequity, and daily survival. And chances are, someone you know is living with it right now.

Type 1 vs. Type 2: What You Need to Know

Type 1 Diabetes (T1D):

• An autoimmune disease where the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
  

• Often diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, but adults can develop it too.
  

• Requires lifelong insulin therapy and blood sugar monitoring.
  

Type 2 Diabetes (T2D):

• A metabolic disorder where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough.
  

• More common in adults but rapidly increasing in children and teens.
  

• Managed with lifestyle changes, medication, or insulin.
  

What they have in common: Both require constant management, medical care, emotional strength, and zero tolerance for misinformation.

The Impact by the Numbers

• Over 37 million Americans live with diagnosed diabetes.
  

• Another 8.5 million are likely undiagnosed.
  

• Type 1 is less common, but it’s relentless.
  

• Type 2 is growing, especially in marginalized and under-resourced communities.
  

People living with diabetes deal with much more than blood sugar:

• Anxiety around meals, travel, or exercise
  

• Financial stress over insulin and supplies
  

• Emotional burnout from constant self-monitoring
  

It’s not just medical. It’s mental, emotional, and systemic.

Debunking the Myths

Let’s kill some toxic misconceptions:

• “You got diabetes because you ate too much sugar.” Nope.
  

• “Type 1 is worse than Type 2.” Wrong. They're both serious.
  

• “You can cure it with a better diet.” Oversimplified. Especially harmful for Type 1.
  

The truth is, diabetes is a complicated condition influenced by genetics, environment, and healthcare access. Shaming people does nothing but isolate them.

The Symbolism of Gray and Blue

• Gray ribbon represents general diabetes awareness.
  

• Blue circle or ribbon is the global symbol, tied to World Diabetes Day on November 14.
  

• Our version? A gray and blue ribbon with a blood drop—for visibility, vulnerability, and strength.
  

Wearing this ribbon says: "I see you. I support you. I believe in better care and real understanding."

Orgs Doing the Work

We’re not partnered, but we trust these heavy-hitters:

• Breakthrough T1D formerly JDRF – Advocacy, education, and research for Type 1 diabetes
  

• American Diabetes Association – Leading the fight for all types with support, policy, and education
  

• Beyond Type 1 – Building community and breaking down barriers with innovative digital tools and outreach
  

Want to help? Start there.

How You Can Be Part of the Movement

• Talk about it. Share facts. Bust myths.
  

• Support someone with diabetes. Even if you don’t get it all, show up.
  

• Fundraise or donate. These orgs run on public support.
  

• Wear a gray and blue ribbon. Visibility matters. It opens doors.
  

Why Our Pins Matter

Our Diabetes Awareness Pins aren’t just cute. They’re part of a bigger story.

Gray and Blue Ribbon with Blood Drop Pin

Unique and eye-catching. For visibility with meaning.

Diabetes Awareness Wristbands

Wearable support for those living the reality, every damn day.

These are more than accessories. They are small ways to spark big conversations.

More Than a Month

This November, let’s drop the blame and lift the support. Let’s replace shame with facts. Let’s advocate, educate, and show up with empathy.

Because diabetes doesn’t end on November 30. And neither should our awareness.