Natalie’s Story: Living with Type 1 Diabetes and Hoping for a Cure

Natalie Griffin, T1D and Patient of the Barbara Davis Center • June 24, 2026

TL;DR: Natalie, a 12-year-old with Type 1 diabetes, shares her experience navigating daily blood sugar highs and lows, frequent testing, and the support that helps her manage the condition. Her story highlights both the challenges of living with Type 1 diabetes and the hope for a cure through ongoing research at the Barbara Davis Center.

Originally Published April 21, 2016

Illustrated comic depicting Natalie, a 12-year-old girl living with Type 1 diabetes. The story shows her experiencing high and low blood sugar, frequent finger pricks, reminders to check her blood sugar, and her hope for a cure through diabetes research at the Barbara Davis Center.

Transcript: Natalie's Story

Image 1: My name is Natalie. I am 12 years old and I have Type 1 diabetes.

Image 2: Sometimes my blood sugar goes high.

Image 3: Sometimes my blood sugar goes low.

Image 4: Sometimes my mom has to remind me: "Time to check your blood sugar!"

Image 5: But I always have hope for a cure thanks to the Barbara Davis Center!

Image 6: One day, there will be a cure. I will be free. Until then, I keep going! Stronger today. Stronger tomorrow. Stronger together. Thank you for supporting kids like me!

DENVER TURNS BLUE FOR DIABETES AWARENESS MONTH

By Press Release: Children's Diabetes Foundation • November 2, 2026
TL;DR The Children’s Diabetes Foundation is turning Denver blue throughout November for Diabetes Awareness Month, raising awareness of type 1 diabetes and its warning signs. The community is invited to celebrate World Diabetes Day on Saturday, November 14, at Cherry Creek Shopping Center. The free event begins at 11:00 a.m., features community speakers, and will offer on-site type 1 diabetes and celiac disease marker testing through the ASK Program. No RSVP is required. Everyone is welcome!
A T1D family of four posing for a picture together in a room.

The Dawn Phenomenon in Diabetes

By By G. Todd Alonso, MD Associate Professor Medical Director, Pediatric Clinic Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes • October 16, 2026
Learn what causes the dawn phenomenon in individuals with diabetes and how CGMs, insulin delivery systems, diet, and exercise can help manage morning highs.
author mary ann chamberlain standing in front of a mirror with her pump visible

A Day in the Life of a Mom Living With Type 1 Diabetes

By Mary Ann Chamberlain, T1D for 37 Years • August 19, 2026
Follow a mom living with type 1 diabetes through a typical day of parenting, work, exercise, family life, and the constant decisions of diabetes management.
drawer of diabetic supplies

Helping Hand Program provides much-needed help to Type 1 diabetics

By Libby Smith, CBS News • August 7, 2026
The Children's Diabetes Foundation's Helping Hand Program supported 558 families in 2025 with financial assistance, supplies, transportation, and emotional support.
A person is being tested for diabetes by a doctor.

Type 1 vs Type 2 vs Gestational Diabetes: Key Differences Explained

By Dr. Sarit Polsky, Head of the Pregnancy Clinic at The BDC • July 30, 2026
Learn the key differences between Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes, including causes, treatment, prevention, and long-term health impacts.
young girl getting tested by nurse for t1d

The Power of Screening & Early Detection for Type 1 Diabetes: The Diagnosis I Wish We Could Have Had

By Mary Ann Chamberlain, T1D for 37 Years • July 20, 2026
Learn how early screening for T1D can reduce the possibility of DKA, identify risk before symptoms appear, and help families prepare with confidence and hope.
Author Lindsay Klatt and her father, smiling for the camera

Cheers to The World’s Greatest T1Dad!

By Lindsay Klatt, a T1D and Current Stewardship Manager at CDF • June 18, 2026
A heartfelt Father’s Day tribute honoring the love, sacrifices, and support of dads helping children navigate life with type 1 diabetes.
A girl with a CGM on her arm that says back to school

Back to School with Type 1 Diabetes: A Checklist for Families

By Dianne Chorny RN, ND, MPH, Diabetes Resource Nurse • June 16, 2026
Get essential back-to-school tips for students with type 1 diabetes, including 504 plans, supplies, safety, and emotional support.
12 things that make type 1s happy banner

12 Things That Make Type 1s Happy

By CDF Staff • May 28, 2026
Discover 12 everyday moments that bring joy to people living with type 1 diabetes, from waking up in range to finding support and community.