Girl with diabetes overjoyed to see ‘Turning Red’ character with insulin patch just like her

By Jessica Hehir-Smith via SWNS

This is the adorable moment an eight-year-old girl with type 1 diabetes reacted with delight after seeing a Disney/Pixar character wearing an insulin patch.

Vanessa Estrada, 25, recorded her sister Miah Castro's joy after spotting the patch while watching "Turning Red" at their home.

The Disney film, released in March 2022, features a diabetic character wearing a Continuous Glucouse Monitor (CGM), a device that automatically tracks blood sugar levels for diabetics.

The video shows Miah, from Los Angeles, California, in awe after seeing a main character wearing the same CGM on the same arm she does.

Vanessa, who works with organization Diabaddie as a Type 1 Diabetes Researcher, described her sister’s reaction and the importance of representation.

She said: “Miah was ecstatic - she had that movie on repeat for a week straight!

“She felt seen and was able to relate, even if it’s just a few seconds in the movie.

“I would be lying if I didn’t feel similar excitement.

“It’s only a glimpse of Type 1 Diabetes representation, but it brings me joy and optimism for future movies and shows.”

Vanessa posted the video on the social media app TikTok to spread awareness about diabetes.

She added: “I took the opportunity to acknowledge how important those few seconds in the movie positively impacted Miah and many other Type 1 diabetic children who are watching.

“The world is connected through media and TV. Kids grow up watching cartoons and Disney movies like 'Turning Red'.

“Having characters with medical devices like Continuous Glucose monitors and Insulin pumps will make all the difference for kids like Miah.

“Miah’s classmates often quiz her about what her medical device is, but now that conversation can shift from something negative to something positive and exciting.”

Vanessa received a lot of positive feedback and support from people who were previously unaware of the multiple types of diabetes.

She hopes that viewers of her videos will recognize how impactful and important representation is for children and young people with diabetes.

Miah was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in 2020 at just six-years-old.