I was in high school when I first came across an Instagram ad for Type One Together. It was a simple sign-up to become a type one babysitter, something I had never even considered before. At the time, I didn’t think much of it. I had been living with type one diabetes for years, but I had never considered babysitting for kids with type one. The idea of it seemed interesting, so I figured, Why not?

Not long after signing up, families started reaching out. I remember my first babysitting job for a

family with a little one who had T1D. I left that night, got in my car, and my heart was so full. Knowing that I could ease a parent’s worries, even for one night, meant everything. It wasn’t just about giving insulin or counting carbs; it was about giving parents peace of mind, knowing their child was in the hands of someone who truly understood. That moment was the first time I realized how powerful it is to be that person for another type one family.

As time went on, I continued babysitting for type one families occasionally, but it wasn’t until I moved for college that I started getting more opportunities. I updated my location in the Type One Together network, and suddenly, I had so many families reaching out! It was overwhelming in

the best way possible. I had gone from occasionally babysitting to becoming a trusted caregiver for multiple families. Each one had different routines, preferences, and technology. Some used pumps, some preferred injections, some had Dexcom's, others did finger pokes. Every family taught me something new.

The more time I spent with these families, the more I realized how deeply I loved this work. I wasn’t just helping kids stay in range, I was forming connections and being a source of comfort for both the kids and their parents. I saw firsthand how much weight parents carry every single day, and it meant the world to me that they trusted me with their child’s care.

One family, in particular, changed everything for me. I started nannying full-time for a family that was very connected in the diabetes world, and through them, my perspective on T1D completely shifted. Until then, I had always seen diabetes as something I just dealt with, something that was

part of my life but not necessarily something that could shape my future in a meaningful way. But suddenly, I was surrounded by people who had turned their experiences into advocacy, support networks, and entire careers dedicated to helping others with T1D.

It made me realize that this wasn’t just a job for me, this was something so much deeper. These kids inspire me every single day. Their resilience, their strength, their ability to adapt, it’s something truly special. I get to see them grow, celebrate their victories (big and small), and remind them that they are never alone in this journey.

I’ve had type one diabetes for 10 years now. Growing up, I didn’t have a role model with T1D to look up to. I didn’t know anyone else checking their blood sugar before lunch or sitting out of P.E. because their blood sugar was low. It wasn’t until I started babysitting and nannying that I realized how powerful it is for kids to see someone who understands.

Now, I get to be that person for them. When a little one sighs and says, "Ugh, I hate when my Dexcom alarms at night," I can respond with, "I know, me too." When they feel frustrated about another site change, I can sit with them and remind them they’re strong, and they can do this. And when they feel like no one understands, I can be right there to show them that they are never, ever alone.

What started as a simple Instagram ad turned into something that has completely changed my life. I’ve found a community, a passion, and a sense of purpose I never expected. Every single one of these kids has made an impact on my heart, and I wouldn’t trade this for the world.

If you have type one diabetes and want to make a difference, I highly encourage you to sign up as a Type One Together babysitter. You never know whose life you might change, including your own!