Be a Part of Change This November
Diabetes Awareness Month is a time to come together, honor the strength of those living with type 1 diabetes (T1D), and push for continued advancements in research and care.
The Children’s Diabetes Foundation (CDF) invites you to join in raising T1D awareness, building empathy, and empowering change. By participating in the Diabetes Awareness Month campaign, you’re helping to pave the way for a future where type 1 diabetes is no longer a barrier but a thing of the past.
Each November, millions of people across the U.S. and around the world come together to raise awareness about diabetes, support those affected by it, and help educate others. World Diabetes Day, recognized every year on November 14, was established in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization in response to the growing health threat diabetes presents globally. Today, the campaign reaches more than a billion people across over 160 countries, showing just how powerful and united the global effort for diabetes awareness and education has become.
The Children’s Diabetes Foundation is dedicated to empowering patients, families, and the wider community to advocate for a world where type 1 diabetes doesn’t hold anyone back. Central to this mission is supporting the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes (BDC) in delivering cutting-edge clinical care and advancing vital research. Beyond that, CDF runs programs that provide financial assistance to families, foster community connections, and build a strong network where everyone affected by type 1 feels seen, supported, and hopeful for what lies ahead.
How You Can Join the Movement
Throughout November, the Children’s Diabetes Foundation invites everyone to participate in this impactful campaign. Here’s how you can make a difference:
- Share Your Story: Use the hashtag #CDFCares and tag @CDFDiabetes or the Children’s Diabetes Foundation on social media to share your personal experiences with type 1 diabetes. Your journey, whether it’s a milestone achievement, daily routine, or moment of triumph, can inspire others and foster a greater understanding of the challenges and victories in this community.
- Fundraise or Donate: Consider starting a fundraiser or donating directly to the Children’s Diabetes Foundation. Every dollar contributes to research, clinical care, education, and financial support for those impacted by type 1. Learn more about how you can donate here.
- Spread the Word: Educate your friends, family, and community about type 1 diabetes by sharing this campaign. Increased awareness can lead to greater understanding and support for those with diabetes, breaking down misconceptions and fostering empathy.
- Attend Events: Diabetes Awareness Month features special promotions and activities from local businesses supporting the Children’s Diabetes Foundation. Here’s how you can join in and show your support this month:
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- Little Man Ice Cream (All Denver locations): Add blue sprinkles to any order and $1 will be donated to CDF.
- Guard & Grace (Denver): Try a special Diabetes Awareness Month cocktail, with $1 from each sold going to CDF.
- Four Seasons Denver (EDGE Restaurant & Bar): EDGE is supporting CDF and Diabetes Awareness Month by donating $1 from every “Aquamarine” cocktail and 10% of proceeds from their special dinner menu.
- Heavenly Waffles: Purchase their Diabetes Awareness Month bundle and 10% of sales will support CDF.
- Olive & Finch (Arts Complex Excluded): Round up your tab in November to donate directly to CDF; November 14 visitors tested for type 1 diabetes receive a coupon.
Why Raising Awareness Matters
Each month, approximately 9,000 people in the US are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. This lifelong condition affects individuals of all ages, with symptoms that can be managed but require daily diligence and resilience. Raising awareness during Diabetes Awareness Month is essential for several reasons:
- Education: Many people are unaware of the differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Type 1 is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells, making constant insulin therapy essential. By educating the public, we can dispel myths and promote a better understanding of the challenges faced by those with T1D.
- Research Funding: Awareness campaigns bring attention to the need for research funding. Medical advancements have made strides in managing diabetes, but a cure remains the ultimate goal. Funding for research is vital to support innovative approaches to treatment and, eventually, a cure.
- Community Support: Living with type 1 diabetes can sometimes feel isolating; it impacts many different parts of life, from increased mental health challenges to the financial burden of ongoing medical expenses. By raising awareness, we build a more understanding and supportive community, offering encouragement to those affected.
This year, we’re celebrating the power of community with our theme: Diabaddies & Diabuddies.
This year, the Children’s Diabetes Foundation is proud to present the Diabaddies and Diabuddies campaign, celebrating the power of connection within the type 1 diabetes community. CDF is proud to highlight the fearless spirit of Diabaddies and the steady presence of their Diabuddies — together forming a T1D community rooted in grit, care, and unshakable bonds. Together, they inspire a powerful movement to raise awareness, improve care and support, and drive the research needed to find better treatments—and ultimately, a cure.
Diabaddies are those living with type 1 diabetes — bold, resilient, and navigating every high and low with strength. Diabuddies are their support systems: the family members, friends, partners, and caregivers who show up day in and day out, ready with a juice box, a shoulder to lean on, or the kind of understanding that comes from walking the journey together. This Diabetes Awareness Month, we’re honoring both — because no one does this alone.
Make a Lasting Impact in the Fight to Cure Type 1 Diabetes
When you join the Diabaddies and Diabuddies movement, you are helping to spark real, lasting change. Every action you take, whether sharing your story, raising awareness, fundraising, or simply showing your support, demonstrates that those with type 1 diabetes can achieve anything they set their minds to.
Diabaddies and Diabuddies together are creating a ripple effect of hope, perseverance, and community. Your involvement, whether big or small, helps pave the way for a future where T1D no longer stands in the way. Every conversation, every donation, and every moment of support matters.
The Children’s Diabetes Foundation is driven by the goal of finding a cure for type 1 diabetes. Research and medical advancements at the BDC offer hope for a future without this disease. Until that cure is discovered, CDF remains committed to celebrating the courage, unity, and determination of all those affected by T1D—whether they are living with the condition, supporting loved ones, or advocating for a brighter, diabetes-free future.
Visit the Children’s Diabetes Foundation to learn more about the campaign and explore ways to get involved. Together, we can create a world where no one has to face type 1 diabetes alone.
