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Mattel’s Fashionista line welcomes a new friend: a Barbie with Type 1 diabetes. This doll comes equipped with a glucose monitor and an insulin pump, reflecting the lived experiences of many children. Mattel hopes the doll will not only provide representation for children with diabetes but also encourage play and understanding among all children.
Krista Berger, a senior vice president at Mattel, emphasized the company’s commitment to inclusivity. The doll, she explained, helps children understand and accept different medical conditions. By seeing themselves represented in their toys, children can broaden their perspectives and build empathy.
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little to no insulin, a hormone vital for processing glucose. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports a steady increase in Type 1 diabetes diagnoses among young people in recent years, highlighting the importance of raising awareness and understanding.
To ensure accuracy, Mattel partnered with the nonprofit organization Breakthrough T1D. CEO Aaron J. Kowalski expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, sharing his personal connection to the cause.
Early reviews from parents suggest the doll is already sparking conversations about diabetes and fostering greater understanding among children. Many parents praised the doll as a valuable addition to the Barbie line, noting its potential to educate and promote empathy.