One of the things that I have always loved about Mamalode is the way that it brings me stories from all different types of parents. No matter the situation we are currently in, we are still able to intersect on some level. There is a saying, “be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle”. As parents, we know this better than most.

When I joined Beyond Type 1, we talked a lot about “living beyond” – looking outside the battle with type 1 diabetes and into the real lives of patients, parents, caregivers and others. When my son Henry was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, I didn't really have anyone to talk to about it. I had no idea how to connect with other people fighting this hard battle. Mamalode so seamlessly makes these connections issue after issue. I was so touched that they offered to partner with the Beyond Type 1 foundation for the month of August.

I have put so much of myself into Beyond Type 1 over the past year and a half, and I have shared so many personal stories about my journey as a parent in the pages of Mamalode, it's only natural that I'd want to bring them together.

I hope that when you read some of these stories from the lives of people and families living with Type 1, they will help you understand our battle better. I hope that if you aren't living with Type 1 in your life, they will inspire you to see how you can help your friends who might be parenting a child with it. I hope that you read this and keep it in mind and maybe you can help save a life with an early diagnosis. I hope that you see how we are all just trying to live beyond, together.

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About the Author

Sara Jensen

As the Creative Director for from the very beginning, Sara is responsible for their arresting visual design and branding. Her son Henry was diagnosed with Type 1 at the age of 5 in 2013 and has grown into a powerful ambassador for diabetes issues. In addition to Beyond Type 1, Sara also works for world-class interior designer Genevieve Gorder as Creative Director. She is passionate about foster adoption, Beyond Type 1, good food and humor. She lives on a tiny island in the middle of a big ocean. And she has stories, lots of them.