Episode Details

In this inspiring episode, Melissa sits down with Elizabeth Forrest, founder and president of Touched by Type 1—a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness, funding research, and building life-changing programs for people with type 1 diabetes.

Diagnosed at age 10, Elizabeth turned her personal journey into a community-wide movement, beginning with a simple dance show in her driveway. Now, Dancing for Diabetes draws thousands of supporters each year and has become a global event.

Together, Melissa and Elizabeth explore:

• Her diagnosis story and how her mom's persistence saved her life
• The origins and evolution of Dancing for Diabetes
• Why she believes adults with T1D are often overlooked—and how that's changing
• Her experience with pregnancy and navigating high-risk care with type 1
• How she's teaching her young sons about her condition in everyday life
• What "thriving" with type 1 really means—and how community makes it possible

Plus, Elizabeth shares details about the upcoming Touched by Type 1 Annual Conference, happening September 20th in Orlando, FL. A free, powerful day of connection, education, and empowerment for people of all ages living with T1D.

Whether you're newly diagnosed, decades in, or loving someone with type 1, this episode will remind you: You're not alone—and you don't have to settle for just surviving.

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