In this episode, we engage in a heartfelt conversation with Esi, a long-time Type 1 Diabetes advocate. Esi was diagnosed with T1D in 1988 at the age of six.

During our conversation, Esi discusses the challenges faced by black individuals living with diabetes, the importance of community support, and the need for cultural sensitivity in healthcare. Asi shares her journey of creating The Carb Cookout, a supportive community for black individuals with diabetes, emphasizing the significance of representation.

The Carb Cookout: Black and Thriving with Type 1 Diabetes is a Facebook group that was created during the heart of the pandemic. The conversation highlights the emotional and social aspects of living with Type 1 Diabetes, the role of healthcare providers, and the hope for a future where diabetes is no longer a barrier to living fully.

Everyone needs an Esi in their corner!

Follow Esi on Instagram at @onyxempress

Diagnosed with T1D in the 90's, at 10 years young while in the 5th grade on Staten Island, NY.

Simone?! is a Black trans non-binary artist. He is a New York City nomad who has lived in each borough at least

twice. His 32nd diaversary is approaching, along with the 4th year living with kidney failure. Simone?! has lived

with other complications and continues to learn that other conditions could also be comorbidities.

Simone's?! paternal grandmother also lived with diabetes. During diagnosis Simone?! was met with a lot of scare

tactics. Simone?! was spoken to as if they were supposed to know everything the doctors knew about diabetes.

The start of this journey geared how diabetes was handled for a long time.

Keywords

diabetes, chronic illness, resilience, community, identity, mental health, kidney disease, self-advocacy, art,

"We are alive, we're not always well."

"Your story hasn't been told before."

"I was diagnosed as a little one."

In this episode of the Chronically Will Podcast, Leah shares her journey living with type 1 diabetes and other chronic health conditions. The conversation explores the intersection of physical and mental health, the importance of advocacy, and the role of community support. Leah discusses her experiences with multiple diagnoses, the impact of chronic illness on mental health, and the misconceptions surrounding diabetes. The episode emphasizes the need for education, self-advocacy, and the hope for a future cure, while also finding humor in the challenges of living with chronic illness.

Follow Leah on instagram @contentleah