Wheelchairs and mobility devices are powerful tools that empower individuals with mobility limitations, allowing them to embrace independence and take charge of their lives.
These innovative devices facilitate movement through their environments and enable participation in daily activities and community engagement. They represent more than just physical aids; they symbolize freedom and the ability to perform tasks independently.
By reducing reliance on others, these devices foster a profound sense of self-reliance and confidence, inspiring individuals to thrive and embrace opportunities.
Today, let’s celebrate the incredible strength and pioneering spirit of mothers everywhere! One remarkable story is that of Elizabeth Hughes Gossett, who became the first American woman to receive insulin treatment for type 1 diabetes. Her journey began in 1919 when she was diagnosed at just 12 years old.
Before she received insulin in 1922, Elizabeth faced tremendous challenges, as her health deteriorated and her weight dropped to a mere 45 pounds. However, with the groundbreaking treatment pioneered by Sir Frederick Banting, everything changed. Elizabeth started receiving insulin injections, and soon after, she began regaining her strength and vitality, illustrating the power of resilience and hope.
Insulin is not just a major medical breakthrough; it transformed lives, and Elizabeth’s story has inspired many as a true pioneer in insulin therapy. In 1930, she married William T. Gossett and welcomed three beautiful children into the world, showing that love and determination can overcome any obstacle.
Today, let’s honor all mothers and their amazing journeys, just like Elizabeth’s. They inspire us with their courage and remind us of the power of love and perseverance. Wishing a joyful and uplifting day to all mothers!
Here’s a message of positivity and acceptance for everyone living with medical devices. It’s essential to embrace who we are, including the tools we use to stay healthy and thrive.
To those with insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors (CGM), catheters, stoma bags, feeding tubes, and other medical devices: you are not alone, and your experiences matter.
Continuous glucose monitoring devices help people manage diabetes with fewer fingerstick checks. A sensor just under the skin measures glucose levels 24 hours a day. A transmitter sends results to a wearable device or cell phone so someone can track changes to glucose levels in real time.
It’s completely unfair that society sometimes views these necessary tools as “gross” or “inappropriate.” Our diabetes and other medical devices are a part of us—a reflection of our strength and resilience.
You deserve to take up space in the world without shame. There’s so much beauty in being authentic and true to ourselves. Your journey is valid, and your life is valuable, exactly as it is. So let’s celebrate diversity in our bodies and support one another in living freely and confidently, devices and all!
Divabetic, in partnership with the Frazier Family Coalition, returns to Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia to present a free diabetes outreach program on Saturday, November 8, 2025.
We applaud you for staying on top of your daily routine and adhering to traditional diabetes management practices.
Treat yourself kindly today. Strive to be mindful of your self-talk, practice self-care activities, and seek support from loved ones and diabetes support groups.
We celebrate you for embracing self-care with such dedication! Your commitment to managing your diabetes deserves applause.
Join the Divabetic Self-Love Choir and let your voice shine! Singing your own praises, particularly when it comes to your diabetes journey, is a wonderful way to uplift your spirit and nourish your well-being. Take a moment to acknowledge your progress, reward yourself, and be your own biggest fan.
By recognizing your strengths, you can boost your confidence and empower yourself to continue moving forward with grace and joy! Remember, each step you take is a reason to celebrate. You’ve got this!
Divabetic will be presenting a free diabetes outreach program in partnership with the Frazier Family Coalitionfor Stroke and Prevention at Thomas Jefferson Univeristy Hospital in Philadelphia in November 2025.
Stoke Awareness Community Day – Join Frazier Family Coalition for a day of fun, interactive activities, health education, resources and screening. There will be give-aways and healthy snacks. May 16, 2025, 10am-2pm.
We acknowledge how hard it is to manage diabetes every day and applaud your efforts. We know managing diabetes can be a complex and demanding task, often feeling like a 24/7 activity. Your resilience and determination serve as a beacon of hope for others facing similar struggles. Remember, every step you take is a testament to your strength.
Let your journey be a source of motivation and an example of self-love, proving that with perseverance, it’s possible to thrive despite the obstacles.
Keep believing in your ability to overcome, and continue to shine brightly!
Join Divabetic’s Self-Loving Choir and sing your praises today.
Happy Early Mother’s Day! My mom, Mama Rose Marie, has been a guiding light in my life, and I’m honored to partner with her to help change attitudes in people living with diabetes.
Treating yourself like a queen and prioritizing self-care is not just a trend; it’s a celebration of your fabulous self! Think of self-care as your own personal party where you can indulge in activities that lift your spirits and fill your heart with joy.
Whether it’s dancing to your favorite songs, soaking in a warm bath, or enjoying an evening stroll, remember that every little moment counts. Embrace laughter, connect with loved ones, and do things that make you feel amazing!
When you nurture your body, mind, and spirit, you’re not just making yourself feel good—you’re shining like the star you are! Keep celebrating yourself, because you truly deserve it!
Being prepared is a crucial part of managing diabetes, and it can significantly enhance your daily life in many ways. It’s all about having your supplies ready and knowing how to effectively monitor and manage your blood sugar levels. With a little bit of knowledge, you’ll feel empowered to handle unexpected situations, like dealing with hypoglycemia.
Consider keeping some fast-acting carbohydrates, like glucose tablets, easily accessible in your car, along with other longer-acting snacks. It’s also a good idea to have a blood glucose meter, test strips, and any other necessary supplies. If you think it’s necessary, a glucagon kit can provide extra peace of mind in emergencies.
Remember, a little bit of preparation goes a long way in helping you navigate your day with confidence and ease!
And as we tag along on your journey, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on the strength of my great-grandmother, who bravely traveled to America from Italy with her two sons. Her pioneering spirit is a wonderful reminder that we can face challenges with resilience and grace.
Keeping data related to diabetes, especially blood glucose levels, is essential for effective diabetes management.
This data helps you understand how various factors, such as food, sleep, exercise, and medications, affect blood sugar levels.
This data, shared with your doctors, allows for adjustments to your treatment plans, setting realistic goals, and making lifestyle choices to manage your diabetes better.
It also provides valuable information to healthcare providers, enabling them to make informed decisions about treatment and care.
Diabetes causes blood sugar levels to fluctuate. Tracking these levels helps you and your team identify patterns and understand what triggers high or low readings.
By monitoring your blood sugar, you can work with your healthcare team to adjust medication dosages, meal plans, and exercise routines to optimize your blood sugar levels.
Carmel, Indiana’s Art and Design District has 23 of J. Seward Johnson Jr.’s bronze-painted sculptures.
J. Seward Johnson Jr. was a grandson of Robert Wood Johnson I, the co-founder of Johnson & Johnson. He was one of six siblings who sought to overturn his father’s will, which left his vast fortune to a former maid, Barbara Piasecka Johnson, whom he had married late in life.
Johnson & Johnson (J&J) has faced numerous lawsuits and scrutiny regarding its diabetes drugs, particularly Invokana (canagliflozin), and its management of patients’ care. A few years ago Johnson & Johnson stopped manufacturing their insulin pump and sold their LifeScan blood glucose monitoring.
Casey Johnson, who was the great-great-granddaughter of Robert Wood Johnson, died from complications from type 1 diabetes. According to sources, she had a long history of poorly managed diabetes dating back to childhood.
In 1964, Mr. Johnson married Cecelia Joyce Horton, who sparked his interest in art. When he was fired from Johnson & Johnson, Seward and Cecelia would paint together, although he wasn’t very good at it.
“I didn’t like what I could do with paint,” he told The New York Times, “so my wife suggested sculpture because I had some mechanical ability.”
He took some classes and created his first piece, made of stainless steel. It won a contest sponsored by U.S. Steel.
Carmel has the largest collection outside of Mr. Johnson’s home state of New Jersey, and cost the city $2.4 million. His goal for his sculptures was to celebrate the familar. The Carmel Art and Design District has over 200 art and design-focused businesses, including the Indiana Design Center.
“Most people who like my work are timid about their own sense of art,” he told The New York Times. “I love to draw it out of them, because they have strong inner feelings. They’ve been intimidated by the art world.”
