A Dual Journey of Strength:
Navigating Adoption and Life with Type 1 Diabetes

Story by: Nathalie Marie

It's Adoption Awareness Month and Diabetes Awareness Month, and my story intersects both. 

When I was 6 years old, I became a foster child. My world changed in ways I couldn’t understand then — from uncertainty and loss to the gift of a new family, a last new name, and the safety of being chosen. Adoption didn’t erase my story — it added love and belonging to it.

I was adopted at the age of 12, and less than a year later, life threw another curveball: I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Suddenly, childhood came with insulin, needles, and numbers — and a daily reminder that my body needs constant care to stay alive. Some days, staying alive has been the hardest thing I’ve ever done. But I’m still here.

There were times when the weight of it all — being adopted, being different, being chronically ill — felt unbearable. But somehow, I kept going. And not only have I survived, I’ve succeeded. I’ve built a life I’m proud of, a career with purpose — the story that little girl in this photo could never have imagined.

Two very different journeys — one through the foster system and one through chronic illness — have taught me the same truth: resilience isn’t something you’re born with; it’s something you fight for, one day at a time.

I’ve learned that family isn’t just who you’re born to — it’s who stands beside you when life gets complicated. And strength isn’t always loud — sometimes it’s just quietly showing up for yourself, even when the world feels heavy.

This photo of me as a child reminds me of that little girl who didn’t know what lay ahead — yet somehow kept smiling. I carry her courage with me still. And sometimes, I wish I could sit down with her — hold her hand, look her in the eyes, and tell her that she’s going to make it. That she’ll grow into someone strong, successful, and loved beyond measure.

To everyone navigating adoption, foster care, or life with diabetes — you are seen, you are loved, and your story matters. 💙