My inspiration for “Diabuddies” derived from the lack of representation and community I faced as a child with type one diabetes. I was the only diabetic in my elementary school until fifth grade. My mom had to teach the school nurse how to help manage my blood sugar. And most kids and teachers didn’t understand what it meant to have diabetes. This left me feeling different and isolated at times. I created “Diabuddies” to bring together a community for young diabetics who share similar feelings due to the obstacles they face during regular school days. The book was created to also serve as an educational resource, introducing readers to type one diabetes and allowing them a resource to understand the disability better.