In this episode of Diabetics Doing Things, sponsored by Medtronic, Rob is joined by Monique La Bomme, in an episode recorded live on World Diabetes Day at the Medtronic Diabetes headquarters in California. Monique shares her experience of living with type 1 diabetes and discusses her journey with diabetes alert dogs and diabetes management technology. The conversation also delves into the importance of representation and advocacy in the diabetes community.

Topics discussed:

1. Monique's diagnosis story and early days with diabetes

2. Diabetes management, technology, and the use of diabetes alert dogs

3. Representation and advocacy in the diabetes community

4. The impact of diabetic alert dogs on people's lives

5. Balancing diabetes management and social life as an actor and model

Here are key takeaways and lessons:

- Monique shares her diagnosis story, highlighting the importance of early detection and the role of a lung specialist in her diagnosis.

- Her positive experience with diabetes management at a children's hospital and the supportive diabetes community during her early days with diabetes.

- The significance of diabetes alert dogs in detecting glucose changes and preventing severe hypoglycemia incidents.

- The importance of representation and advocacy in the diabetes community, especially in showcasing diverse experiences and stories.

- The impact of diabetic alert dogs on raising awareness and inspiring others to consider using service dogs for diabetes management.

References:

- Instagram handle: Monique La Bomme - [@moniquenicolee] (https://www.instagram.com/moniquenicolee/)

- Medtronic - [Medtronic Diabetes](https://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/)

- World Diabetes Day - [International Diabetes Federation](https://www.idf.org/our-activities/world-diabetes-day.html)

00:00  Live from Medtronic HQ: A Type 1 Diabetes Journey on World Diabetes Day

05:09  Navigating Type 1 Diabetes: Community Support and Advanced Technology

09:40  How a Diabetic Alert Dog Changed My Life: Monique’s Story

19:33  Breaking Barriers: Advocating for Diversity and Inclusivity in the Diabetes Community