Redefining Resilience: Christine MacGibbon On Living Empowered With Type 1 Diabetes

Intro: This Diabetes Awareness Month, Christine MacGibbon shares her inspiring journey of living with Type 1 Diabetes for 27 years. From battling diabulimia to embracing advanced diabetes tech as symbols of strength, Christine is reshaping perceptions and advocating for equitable access to life-changing tools. Discover her powerful story and vision for change. —Noa Nichol

Can you share how your journey with body dysmorphia and diabulimia shaped your perspective on managing Type 1 Diabetes? What advice would you give to others navigating similar struggles?

Having such negative self-worth was devastating to my diabetes management. I believed everything that happened to me was my fault, and that I didn’t deserve to be healthy. I stopped taking my insulin and ignored my blood sugars because I didn’t want to face the reality of high readings or see my bleeding fingertips. I was constantly in and out of the hospital, feeling like my illness was all anyone saw, and that I looked as bad on the outside as I felt on the inside. I thought losing weight, hiding my diabetes, and conforming to society’s standards of beauty would make me happy and loved—just like before my diagnosis—and that all my problems would disappear. But instead, I developed severe complications and almost lost my life from neglecting my diabetes.

I would tell others not to give up—health isn’t worth sacrificing for a false ideal. Seek support from a trusted therapist and use resources like Breakthrough T1D’s mental health directory. Volunteering with diabetes organizations and finding healthy outlets, like art or exercise, can help you feel less isolated and more empowered.

For parents, encourage healthy eating habits by cooking meals together, avoid negative comments about weight or appearance, and support your child in their goals. Consider therapy to better understand how to help, and work with your child’s healthcare team for a strong plan.

Many see diabetes devices as burdensome or stigmatizing. How did you shift your mindset to view tools like the Omnipod insulin pump and Dexcom CGM as empowering symbols of resilience?

Shifting my mindset took a lot of therapy and education. It wasn’t until I took Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathophysiology in university that I fully understood the effects of diabetes on the body. I was initially terrified, but that education helped me become more open-minded about restarting my insulin pump and properly managing my diabetes. Therapy played a crucial role in helping me process feelings of guilt, regret, sadness, and frustration. It gave me the tools to challenge my negative thoughts and view my devices in a new light.

Since then, my health and quality of life have greatly improved. When you’re sick, it’s hard to do anything, and the things you do aren’t your best, which can really impact your self-esteem. I once saw my device as something that held me back, but now I see it as a symbol of strength and resilience—my sidekick, always supporting me so I can take on the world.

Access to diabetes technology can be a major hurdle for many living with T1D. What do you see as the biggest barriers, and how do you advocate for broader accessibility?

Access to diabetes technology is a significant hurdle for many with T1D, particularly due to affordability. Devices are expensive, and even with insurance or government assistance, the ongoing costs remain high. For instance, while my insulin pump was fully covered, my supplies cost over $2,000 annually, excluding insulin. Many companies also require a credit card, which can be a barrier for some, and the financial strain only grows over time.

The process to access a pump is complicated—requiring extensive paperwork, proof of eligibility, and multiple A1C tests. It can take months or even over a year to get started. Plus, once you’re on a device, you’re often locked into a five-year commitment, limiting your options if newer models or alternatives become available.

Beyond financial and logistical barriers, mental health is a major factor. People need to be emotionally prepared to manage these devices, and body image plays a huge role in whether or not they’ll choose to use them.

I’m advocating for broader accessibility by highlighting the true costs of these technologies—comparable to luxury items like Tiffany’s or Cartier. Diabetes tech shouldn’t be a privilege for a select few. It should be accessible to anyone who needs it. Through this shoot and my involvement in research, I’m working to uncover these barriers on a larger

scale and push for solutions that make these tools available to everyone, regardless of income or background.

Your recent photo series showcases diabetes tech in empowering contexts. How did this project come to life, and what impact do you hope it has on the T1D community and society at large?

This photo series has been years in the making, but my own health struggles and insecurities held me back. The idea became urgent after I started volunteering with Breakthrough T1D and hearing firsthand accounts of people, especially young women, feeling ashamed or stigmatized by their diabetes technology. Many feared that wearing devices would make them “ugly,” hinder their romantic relationships, or prevent them from achieving their goals. One friend even told me she hesitated to start using a pump before her wedding, worried it would ruin her dress or affect her appearance.

This project is about changing that narrative. We embrace technology everywhere else in our lives—people line up for the latest iPhone and proudly wear Fitbits—so why should medical tech, which improves quality of life, be treated differently? I wanted to show that these devices are not just medical tools but symbols of strength and resilience. My goal is to empower young women, make these devices feel less clinical, and help shift how society views them. I don’t want anyone to feel ashamed or less-than because of their diabetes. If even one person struggling with body image or acceptance sees this project and feels better about themselves, it will be worth it.

The process was a labour of love. To bring my vision to life, I created a detailed vision board to communicate my ideas, then assembled a team of professionals who either have T1D or are strong allies of the community. We rented a studio and spent two full days shooting both series. My hope is that this project will inspire the diabetes community and spark a broader societal shift in how we view those who live with diabetes and the technology they need.

How has your collaboration with other T1D artists through projects like your photo series influenced your outlook and advocacy work?

Collaborating with other T1D artists has been incredibly validating and has inspired me to do more advocacy work. Everyone on the team was so enthusiastic and supportive, excited that this important conversation is finally being visualized. People’s stories are powerful, but often overlooked, and I believe art can make a bigger impact by allowing viewers to connect emotionally and interpret things for themselves.

One of the highlights was having my partner shoot the photos. He always makes me feel beautiful and confident, and his unwavering support of my dreams has been a huge part of my journey. He’s been by my side through every challenge, and I truly believe he played a key role in my recovery and path to better health.

It was also special to team up with Shonna from @hyperpumpart, who designed my pump covers. I admire her work and mission—she, too, lives with T1D and started her company to help with her own mental health and empower others. The collaboration with such passionate people has deepened my commitment to advocacy and made this project even more meaningful.

6. After nearly three decades of living with Type 1 Diabetes, what are some of the most valuable lessons or insights you’ve gained, both personally and as an advocate?

After nearly three decades of living with Type 1 Diabetes, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the flaws in our healthcare system. The challenges I’ve faced have opened my eyes to the gaps that many people don’t recognize until they experience them firsthand. I’ve learned that my voice and my story matter—it’s just as crucial to share the struggles as it is to celebrate the successes.

I’ve also learned that you have to be your own strongest advocate and fight for the care you deserve. Change won’t happen on its own, especially in a system that’s so overwhelmed. It’s essential to keep educating yourself, pushing for progress, and accepting that it won’t always be a straight path. Progress takes time, and setbacks are part of the journey, but perseverance is key.

7. Your work with Breakthrough T1D focuses on advancing access to technology and

support. What key initiatives or goals are you most passionate about within this organization?

Where do I begin? Breakthrough T1D is truly a pioneer in diabetes research and innovation, and there are so many initiatives that excite me. Personally, I’m most passionate about their Mental Health Advisory Council and Directory, as well as efforts that use social media to accurately depict the challenges of living with Type 1 Diabetes. Diabetes is relentless and has a profound impact on mental health, which has been overlooked in research and practice until recently.

I’m also deeply invested in the research happening right now. While we all hope for a cure, we must focus on improving the lives of people living with diabetes today, and supporting their families. I love connecting with people, hearing their stories, and being able to provide resources and encouragement—it’s truly fulfilling.

Looking ahead, I want to expand my advocacy work by doing more media appearances, motivational speaking, and behind-the-scenes policy work. I’m passionate about ensuring that insulin and technology are accessible to all, and that diabetes care adopts a more holistic approach—one that includes mental health, continuous education, and nutrition.