On this episode we get to hear from Marlaina Goedel. 14 months ago, Marlaina was fully, functionally cured of living with Type 1 diabetes. The procedure was the first of it's kind in the world, performed by Dr. Pior Witkowski at UC Med. With this process they inserted donor islet cells into Marlaina's liver and used the new monoclonal antibody Tegoprubart as the main antirejection infusion.
After 25 years of living with Type 1 and having dealt with too many hospitals stays to recall and far too many times having to be rescued by her loved ones, including her daughter she no longer lives with T1D.
During this episode Marlaina shares answers to every question that you could think of answering. And as Marlaina mentioned, "We did it!" She took this step for us all, not because only her own experience with diabetes.
Marlaina was a pure gem to record with and her story is story of hope for everyone. To-date there have been 12 people in the clinical trial after Marlaina's successful transplant. So far, everyone is on schedule to be insulin dependent like Marlaina (6 in total during the second phase already are).
You can follow Marlaina on Instagram @ilovemiley94
Find her on Facebook at Marlaina Goedel
Donate to support Marlaina continue this new life
On this episode, we hear from Jisel. Jisel has been living with Type 1 Diabetes for 22 years, having been diagnosed near the end of her sophomore year of high school at 15 in 2003. Jisel is a wife, mom of two, and a self-proclaimed Serial Volunteer! Whether it's school events, work-related, or with her people, in the T1D community, you can find Jisel always lending a hand, foot, time, and dedication to the communities she serves.
In this episode, Jisel shares everything else, plus diabetes, including how challenging it was for a 15-year-old young girl learning to advocate for herself as a newly diagnosed Type 1, and as an adult throughout her pregnancies.
Jisel is not only someone you should get to know but she's someone that is making things happen in the diabetes space!
Follow Jisel @jisel.p_andt1d
In Pt 2, we dive more into Krislin's new life without T1D and CKD as of June 29, 2025.
Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at just 9 years old, Krislin’s life was forever changed. By age 22, she faced diabetic retinopathy. At 26, Chronic Kidney Disease entered the picture. And yet, on the 20th anniversary of her diagnosis, something extraordinary happened. By age 29, Krislin was gifted the chance at a new life.
Her story is one of resilience, heartbreak, and hope. So, grab your tissues and walk with Krislin. Love with Krislin. Live with Krislin. Cry with Krislin. Heal with Krislin.
Her mother always told her, “You have diabetes. Diabetes doesn’t have you.” And today, that truth has never been more real, because diabetes no longer has her.
In 5th grade, Krislin’s diagnosis took a heavy toll on her young body. The innocent question, “Why me?” evolved into painful self-blame. “What did I do to deserve this? What did I do that was bad?” Even at 9, classmates asked cruel questions like, “When are you gonna die?”—questions that haunted her for years and silenced her voice about her condition.
She carried guilt. She felt alone. Her childhood was marked by hospital stays and isolation. For years, she didn’t speak about her diabetes, not out of denial, but out of pain.
But three months ago, Krislin woke up freer than she had ever felt. And today, her heart is with the community she leaves behind—the warriors who continue the fight against diabetes every single day.
You’ll laugh. You’ll cry. I know I did. Because this isn’t just Krislin’s story. It's a love letter to every person living with diabetes. To every parent, every friend, every fighter. This is for you.
Follow Krislin's Journey on Instagram @krislinwins
Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at just 9 years old, Krislin’s life was forever changed. By age 22, she faced diabetic retinopathy. At 26, Chronic Kidney Disease entered the picture. And yet, on the 20th anniversary of her diagnosis, something extraordinary happened. By age 29, Krislin was gifted the chance at a new life.
Her story is one of resilience, heartbreak, and hope. So, grab your tissues and walk with Krislin. Love with Krislin. Live with Krislin. Cry with Krislin. Heal with Krislin.
Her mother always told her, “You have diabetes. Diabetes doesn’t have you.” And today, that truth has never been more real, because diabetes no longer has her.
In 5th grade, Krislin’s diagnosis took a heavy toll on her young body. The innocent question, “Why me?” evolved into painful self-blame. “What did I do to deserve this? What did I do that was bad?” Even at 9, classmates asked cruel questions like, “When are you gonna die?”—questions that haunted her for years and silenced her voice about her condition.
She carried guilt. She felt alone. Her childhood was marked by hospital stays and isolation. For years, she didn’t speak about her diabetes, not out of denial, but out of pain.
But three months ago, Krislin woke up freer than she had ever felt. And today, her heart is with the community she leaves behind—the warriors who continue the fight against diabetes every single day.
You’ll laugh. You’ll cry. I know I did. Because this isn’t just Krislin’s story. It’s a love letter to every person living with diabetes. To every parent, every friend, every fighter. This is for you.
On this episode, we travel to Aruba to meet with Nurianne. Nurianne was diagnosed with T1D at 19. She is a graduate of the University of Aruba. Nuri worked as a full-time lecturer at the University of Aruba and was a researcher for the local Foundation of diabetes in Aruba concerning diabetes management on the island. Nurianne is passionate about helping others, as she started volunteering at the age of 12 and has been active in many social projects and programs since then. Nurianne has a special interest in children and their development.
Since her diabetes diagnosis, she has dedicated herself to researching diabetes and health conditions. Nurianne aims at motivating and coaching people living with diabetes.
In 2018 Nurianne participated as the representative of Aruba in the Miss World pageant and her advocacy focused on health for children and youngsters. In 2019 Nurianne joined the YLD program by the International Diabetes Federation to gain more knowledge in the field of diabetes so she can develop the appropriate skills to support others and do research.
Nurianne has been a Ph.D. student in the field of Public Administration since September 2023. Her Ph.D. research is an extension of her passion for advocating for health and specifically invisible disabilities. Nurianne plans on conducting research on how communities of experience (support systems) can enhance health outcomes of people with hidden disabilities such as diabetes, ADHD, and endometriosis in Aruba.
On this episode we get to hear from Anchal . Anchal visits the Podcast from India. Anchal is 16 years young and was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes 7 years ago at the age of 9. Anchal, in most ways, is your typical teenager. She enjoys dancing, doing her makeup, and dressing up. These things are what bring her peace of mind when everything gets too much.
Anchal aspires to be someone who can encourage and motivate more people like her. She wants to make life a little easier for them in any way possible. Anchal also hopes to become a clinical psychologist! She remembers how traumatic her diagnosis was and continues to be for her and her family, specifically her parents, who are also her superheroes, and how much therapy can help newly diagnosed families.
During this conversation Anchal opens up about being a teen and how misinformed others are about her living with diabetes and how it does anger her at times.
Anchal is someone we should all get to know because she will take on and over the world!!
Sarah was diagnosed with type 1 at the age of 7, 17 years ago, and also lives with multi drug-resistant epilepsy. She was diagnosed during a visit to the pediatrician.
After diagnosis, Sarah spent her summers at camp Nejeda, later becoming a counselor, which helped foster a good relationship with my diabetes as well as instill confidence. While in college, pursuing her BS in nursing, she began modeling and wanted her diabetes to be a focal point. This is when she started advocating more for type 1. Eventually, Sarah got to take part in amazing opportunities, such as opening the NASDAQ on World Diabetes Day as part of a Dexcom campaign.
Currently, Sarah is a nurse on a neuro/stroke step-down unit and loves the conversations that her diabetes tech starts.
This year, Sarah will be working towards becoming a certified diabetes care and education specialist.Sarah shares how it's essential for young people to see someone openly share the good, the bad, and the ugly of diabetes.
Sarah knows that she would be nowhere if not gifted her amazing family. Her parents came together with their strengths to keep little Sarah well. Sarah celebrates that she's able to wake up daily and do the things she does.
The Diabetes community means a great deal to Sarah. The comfort others have with reaching out and sharing with her is amazing. The DOC has been there for her through the ups, downs, and through grief.
During this recording, flowers are gifted to the Guarino family for their forever support during her diagnosis and continuing. Sarah's mother recently transitioned. She was and continues to be the answer to all of Sarah's "Whys."
Get to know Sara @runawaywithsara
On this episode, we get to smile with Arianna @ariannaiannaira
Arianna was diagnosed with T1D at age 11, more than 15 years ago. She also lives with PCOS. Ari is mother to the amazingly amazing Finn, who is two years old now.
During our conversation, Ari shares her gifts of life. This includes her sharing her new level of acceptance with newly diagnosed people by finding the diabetic online community. We also converse about grieving the life before, not only this diagnosis, but also of other obstacles we have endured.
Ari is a published research scientist in cancer research and a biologist with her BS from Lehigh University. She is also a creative who loves to sew and act. As she says, she is a Jack of All Trades, not a perfectionist. In school, she also minored in theatre and apparel design.
Recently, she enrolled in @Bluecirclehealth ,and this has helped her find the support team she needs.
My friend Arianna is someone we should all get to know.
Follow Ari on Instagram @ariannaiannaira
On this episode we get to hear from Mary @t1dartistry
Mary is an ambassador for Eversense CGM and has been for 5 years! Mary was diagnosed with T1D at the age of 18, during her freshmen year of college.
On this episode Mary invites us into her world and her truths. This includes discussions regarding the birth of her son. Although, her the duration of her pregnancy was pretty smooth and she had the best glucose results, during the last few weeks things changed drastically.
Mary was given predisone at 37 weeks, which shot her blood sugar up! In turn, during her next stress test, she was told that her baby wasn't moving. Mary asked them to deliver her baby. She was denied, even though he weighed over 10lbs.
The next day, she went back and they delivered her baby, and his heart rate was only 25 bpm. He had meconium aspiration, which hardened his lungs and heart, and led to him not being able to breathe. Mary also had fibroids. She lost 2 liters of blood and ended up with Sheehan syndrome (when you lose your blood and pituitary strengths) and needed transfusions. Now, all of her hormones are injured forever because of that.
Throughout this conversation, Mary speaks to us! Everyone in the community needs to listen to the strength of this Queen!
On this episode, we head to the Midwest and visit Marcus in Cincinnati. Marcus was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of 15. This year marks Marcus' 25th year with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D).
His diagnosis was a true traumatic experience for a young, fit athlete, and for the first few days after diagnosis, he did fall into a state of slumber depression. This was until his dad tapped him on his shoulder and said, "Just listen."
25 years ago, Marcus' diagnosis was not what we see and know it to be today. He started with NPH and Regular insulin. There was no wiggle room back then. His parents were his greatest advocates during those early years.
He remembers making sure every time he went out of the house to go through his checklist of everything needed. Marcus owned his diabetes from day 1. A lot of this is because of his anger with this diagnosis.
25 years ago his mom was his CGM. She made sure that she understood what it looked like when his blood sugar would fluctuate.
Marcus and his wife were on the Netflix series "I Do," which aired in 2020, where he and his wife were given a second chance at their dream wedding.
Follow Marcus along his journey @marcouslacour
Step into the world of Jayla. Jayla is a 24-year-old Detroit native and recent graduate of Clark Atlanta University. With a career in radio and digital marketing, her aspiration is to become an influencer and advocate for individuals like her to thrive even with chronic illnesses such as Type 1 diabetes. Jayla was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes the summer before high school at the age of 14. With being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes for 10 years, she’s navigated her health journey through community and advocacy throughout many of the rooms she’s stepped in. In the end she hopes to be able to teach others, reach out to others, and inspire others.
Jayla is the Miss Atlanta Clark University 2024-2025 and in May graduated Magna Cum Laude
Connect with Jayla on Instagram @indigoyah
In this episode, we journey to India to meet Khushi Ahuja, a global advocate for T1International. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 11, Khushi shares her personal story of navigating the challenges of her diagnosis, including an extended honeymoon period. She discusses the stigmas surrounding diabetes and the critical role community support has played in her journey. Khushi reveals how connecting with others who understand her struggles has been a lifeline, offering hope and empowerment. Her family has been instrumental in keeping her at her best, providing unwavering support. Join us as we explore the transformative power of community and the importance of mental health support in managing chronic conditions. #CommunitySupport #DiabetesAwareness #MentalHealthMatters
On this episode, we sit down with Sa'Ra, a passionate advocate and inspiring individual who has lived with Type 1 Diabetes since the age of five, 25 years ago. Sa'Ra's journey is deeply personal, as her mother's older sister, Joy, also had Type 1 Diabetes and passed away from complications at the young age of 43. Five years after her diagnosis, her baby sister (3 years younger) was diagnosed. Tune in for an empowering conversation that highlights the importance of support, love, and choosing joy in the face of adversity.
In 2019, Sa'Ra's advocacy continued when she spoke out publicly, which led to widespread media attention and connections to T1International. She was then invited to testify before the U.S. House Oversight and Reform Committee, where she passionately addressed the insulin pricing crisis.
Join us as we explore her journey of resilience, from childhood challenges to becoming a mother, and her unwavering commitment to advocacy.
Follow Sa'Ra via instagram @_SaRaJoycelyn @_SkipJoy
In this compelling episode of the Chronically Will podcast, we hear from Dee, a resilient Cuban-Jamaican born, Brooklyn-bred single mother, as she shares her journey of advocating for her daughter, Jayde Michele, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at just two years old, only 6 years ago. Dee opens up about the challenges and triumphs of navigating the educational system, ensuring Jayde receives the support she needs to thrive. From managing blood sugar levels during school activities to fostering a community of understanding and support, Dee's story is a testament to the power of informed advocacy and unwavering love. Join us to explore how Dee's cultural roots and personal strength shape her approach to advocacy and learn how you can make a difference in your community.
Follow Jayde Michele's journey
Instagram @type1derfullyme
On this episode, you get to hear (seriously) one of the funnest conversations I've ever had with our sister Norma. Norma grew up in Puerto Rico, went to college in the US, and ended up in Canada, where she's been for the last 22 years.
Norma is a mom of 2, a wife, and has been living with T1D for 43 years!! She doesn't remember life without T1D.
For the past 15 years, she has been focused on raising her kids and, more recently, went back to school to get her MPH.
Norma lived in Cleveland until she was 3 (Big BTNH fan). She was diagnosed with T1D during the transition of moving from Cleveland to Puerto Rico. As a toddler, when she got diagnosed, her parents were diagnosed. Her dad told her that it's one of the few times he cried. 95% of her diagnosis was theirs. Everyone came together as a community of family and friends to support them.
Throughout our conversation, you can feel Norma's passion for helping others advocate and stand up for their rights! After 43 years of being a Type One Diabetic, she's ready for the next step in care and technology.
Although Norma does not recall a life before diabetes, she does hope for a day when not only is insulin accessible to all, but on the day a cure is here, it reaches our most vulnerable communities first.
Follow Norma @norma__amy
She's always willing to lend a hand in helping out her fellow diabetic!
In this episode, we engage in a heartfelt conversation with Esi, a long-time Type 1 Diabetes advocate. Esi was diagnosed with T1D in 1988 at the age of six.
During our conversation, Esi discusses the challenges faced by black individuals living with diabetes, the importance of community support, and the need for cultural sensitivity in healthcare. Asi shares her journey of creating The Carb Cookout, a supportive community for black individuals with diabetes, emphasizing the significance of representation.
The Carb Cookout: Black and Thriving with Type 1 Diabetes is a Facebook group that was created during the heart of the pandemic. The conversation highlights the emotional and social aspects of living with Type 1 Diabetes, the role of healthcare providers, and the hope for a future where diabetes is no longer a barrier to living fully.
Everyone needs an Esi in their corner!
Follow Esi on Instagram at @onyxempress
Diagnosed with T1D in the 90's, at 10 years young while in the 5th grade on Staten Island, NY.
Simone?! is a Black trans non-binary artist. He is a New York City nomad who has lived in each borough at least
twice. His 32nd diaversary is approaching, along with the 4th year living with kidney failure. Simone?! has lived
with other complications and continues to learn that other conditions could also be comorbidities.
Simone's?! paternal grandmother also lived with diabetes. During diagnosis Simone?! was met with a lot of scare
tactics. Simone?! was spoken to as if they were supposed to know everything the doctors knew about diabetes.
The start of this journey geared how diabetes was handled for a long time.
Keywords
diabetes, chronic illness, resilience, community, identity, mental health, kidney disease, self-advocacy, art,
"We are alive, we're not always well."
"Your story hasn't been told before."
"I was diagnosed as a little one."
In this episode of the Chronically Will Podcast, Leah shares her journey living with type 1 diabetes and other chronic health conditions. The conversation explores the intersection of physical and mental health, the importance of advocacy, and the role of community support. Leah discusses her experiences with multiple diagnoses, the impact of chronic illness on mental health, and the misconceptions surrounding diabetes. The episode emphasizes the need for education, self-advocacy, and the hope for a future cure, while also finding humor in the challenges of living with chronic illness.
Follow Leah on instagram @contentleah
On this episode of Chronically Will Podcast we get to hear from the amazing Keeratdeep. Keerat comes to us from Delhi, India and was diagnosed with Type One Diabetes 20 years ago at the young age of 10. Yes, she has been learning, living and thriving with diabetes for the last 2 decades. Diabetes sort of grew up with her.
Through this conversation Keerat speaks fondly about her loved ones that have been there with her along this journey. When she was diagnosed, they too received a diagnosis. Her mom, dad and brother have been her everything!
She tells us all how having a community of people living with diabetes that we can interact with helps validate us more than anything. As Keerat says, you must choose your tripe wise. This will benefit you along your life with chronic health conditions.
Keerat has traveled and lived all around the world. She's lived in both Australia and America. Over the years she's learned so much about herself because of diabetes. It has 100% affected her in relationships, with people not seeing her in the amazing light that she is because society sees diabetes one way.
Keerat is fun, strong and just an overall great spirit of light that deserves her shine.
Get to know Keeratdeep!!
Follow on Instagram instagram.com/lifewithkeerat
On this episode you will hear from Michelle @michelle_jako Michelle visits us from Johannesburg, South Africa.
Michelle was diagnosed with Type One Diabetes in 2012 at 13 years young, while in the 7th grade. In this conversation Michelle tells us about how diabetes makes you
grow up fast and as a young teen when you're told to do certain things how you know as a youth that nothing can stop you.
She recalls her mom not knowing if it was her blood sugar or her just being 13 that altered her emotions and made her irritable. Even as a child in school, teachers would provoke her about her diabetes, specifically when she was doing exams and couldn't focus at times.
Once at a restaurant a patron told the waiter to tell her to take her insulin in a restroom. Michelle used this as a moment to advocate and educate this person on diabetes and the direct need for her to take her insulin.
Michelle recalls at the age of 15 not wanting people to know about her diabetes so she hid it. No one knew that she was taking insulin 3x a day, in the morning, before lunch and in the evening. Her close friends knew she had diabetes, but they didn't know the details of it. When she would
stay with friends their parents would make sure to keep the sweets from her.
One of Michelle's greatest hopes is that her child never has to grow with this.
When she met her significant other and she told him she had diabetes, he was okay with it. He was so excepting
of it and had no questions. He didn't know anyone with diabetes, but he told her, "Well, you'll teach me about it. I'm willing to learn. " While dating he once came to visit her and had to ask security to accompany him to her door, and there they found her unconscious. It was an eye-opening experience for her.
In her career she helps educate people on diabetes and advocacy. Although her child is only 2 she wants
to also educate her so that she will know what to do incase an emergency does occur.
Living with diabetes has made Michelle a more patient and understanding person. When she had her child, and although her pregnancy was hard for her, it was amazing! As Michelle passionately shares, "She is her gift from God!"
Follow Michelle
Instagram: Michelle_Jako
Tiktok: Michelle_jayy