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This Barbie is bringing attention to the issue. And they're doing it with the first-ever doll with type 1 diabetes, the newest model in Mattel's inclusive Fashionista Barbie collection.
Furthermore, Mattel stressed in a statement released on July 8 that its partnership with Breakthrough T1D was "designed with inclusion and empathy at the core."
The doll has a wearable insulin pump, a glucose monitor patch, and a personal diabetes manager (PDM) in her purse. Furthermore, her blue polka-dot ensemble alludes to a symbol of disease awareness—a chronic illness in which the body generates little to no insulin.
According to Mattel's statement, "this addition to the line enables more children to see themselves reflected in Barbie and encourages doll play that extends beyond a child's own lived experience, thereby fostering a greater sense of inclusion and empathy—all cornerstones of the Barbie brand's mission."
Mattel honored two type 1 diabetes ambassadors, Peloton instructor Robin Arzón and Kate Moss’ model daughter Lila Moss, with their own unique dolls to commemorate the release.
Lila, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 12, provided direct assistance with every aspect of her doll. The 22-year-old's Barbie is wearing a stylish little black dress with her own personal touches, such as her sleek gold jewelry, an insulin pump on her left leg, a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) on her right arm, and her PDM in her stylish black handbag.
In a July 8 interview with British Vogue, Lila stated, "I hope this Barbie helps people understand that, even with T1D, you can still do everything you want to do." "I hope it inspires others to show off their own patches and pumps with confidence."
"We don't need to hide our differences," she continued.
In fact, Lila believes that the Barbie will not only help spread awareness but also provide her mother some solace during their time apart.
However, "I wish I could carry you around in my handbag!" is something my mother has always said. Lila made a joke. "Maybe she can now at last."
