Sharing My Story: Me, T1D and the State of the Union

Sharing My Story: Me, T1D and the State of the Union

January 31, 2020

ada camper

My name is Carly, and I’ve been living with type 1 diabetes for 5 years—but I’ve never let it hold me back. I’ve become stronger because of it, and I’ve always raised my voice on behalf of the millions of other people who are also working hard to live good, healthy lives despite a T1D diagnosis.

Tonight I’m going to be attending the State of the Union in Washington, D.C., where I’ll have an even more exciting opportunity to raise awareness of diabetes and all of the issues that people like me face every day! My mom and I were invited to attend the speech by Representative Rashida Tlaib, who represents a district in my home state of Michigan. We would never have guessed that we would have this type of opportunity, and we are so thrilled to be here!

Even though I’m only 15, I was invited to attend the speech because, like millions of other American living with diabetes, I rely on insulin to survive. Unfortunately, insulin prices continue to rise and as a result my family has struggled to afford my health care. I know that my mom, a widow, has had to make tough choices that no parent should have to make, just to keep me healthy and make sure I have access to the medication that literally keeps me alive. 

Being able to attend this important speech is proof that my voice has been heard by lawmakers in Washington. When I attend the State of the Union, I’ll be representing the millions of Americans living with diabetes, like myself, who have struggled to afford their insulin. 

My voice matters and yours does too! I encourage you to sign up to become a Diabetes Advocate today, so we can all come together and send Congress the message that insulin is NOT optional, and we need it to be affordable NOW.

Become an Advocate

Carly Fraser