Episode 301 - Navigating Life with T1D through Advocacy with Renee Rayles

In this episode of Diabetics Doing Things, Rob speaks with Renee Rayles, the creator of Hey T1D, about her journey with Type 1 Diabetes. Renee shares how her diagnosis impacted her career in communications, acting, and broadcasting, underscoring the significance of preparation and informed decision-making. The discussion highlights the challenges of misdiagnosis and the importance of being proactive in healthcare. Renee also shares her advocacy work for affordable insulin and raising diabetes awareness through public events and social media. Emphasizing community support, the conversation covers overcoming stigma, misinformation, and the unique challenges faced by adults diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, particularly during the pandemic. Listeners are inspired by personal anecdotes and practical advice on managing diabetes, fostering community, and empowering both adults and children living with the condition. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:36 Meet Our Guest: Renee Rayles 00:55 Balancing a Career and Diabetes 0 2:59 Renee's Diagnosis Journey 03:55 Advocacy and Transparency 06:53 Misdiagnosis and Self-Advocacy 12:50 Jumping into Advocacy 18:06 The Early Days of Podcasting 18:23 The Power of Community Advocacy 18:59 Raising Diabetes Awareness 20:10 Personal Stories and Connections 25:15 Challenges and Misconceptions 27:52 Bullying and Body Image 30:36 Navigating Life with Diabetes 34:21 Resources and Support 35:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts