A new Barbie® doll reflecting a child living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) has been introduced, marking a milestone in the brand’s ongoing mission to promote inclusivity and representation. With this addition, children living with T1D are being offered a new kind of visibility in the world of play — one that encourages empathy, self-acceptance, and broader understanding.
The release has resonated deeply with South African singer-songwriter and T1D ambassador Holly Rey, who was diagnosed with the condition as a child. Rey, a multi-platinum, multi-award-winning artist, has openly shared how playtime with Barbie dolls once offered her an emotional escape during a time marked by misunderstanding and exclusion.
Her experience growing up with diabetes was shaped by bullying and isolation. “Diabetes was viewed as something you did to yourself,” Rey recalled. “I was left out of birthday parties and sports teams. If a Barbie with Type 1 Diabetes had existed then, it would have changed my life.”
Through this latest release, Rey believes children today will receive something she never had — validation.
“If Barbie has diabetes, then it must be okay for me to have diabetes,” she said. “It might even be cool.”
What's your hot take on this story?
The doll, developed in collaboration with Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF), has been carefully designed to reflect lived experiences. It features a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) on the arm, held in place with heart-shaped Barbie-pink medical tape, a phone displaying a CGM app, and an insulin pump worn at the waist. A blue polka dot outfit and pastel blue purse complete the look, both nodding to international diabetes awareness symbols.
“We were thrilled when Barbie approached us,” said Aaron J. Kowalski, Ph.D., CEO of Breakthrough T1D. “This partnership is deeply personal… it’s an honour to work with a brand that shares our commitment to showing children that a life with type 1 diabetes can be full, vibrant, and empowering.”
Local representation was further expanded with the inclusion of 10-year-old dancer Sayuri Sewsunker, who joins Rey as one of South Africa’s ambassadors for the campaign.
The doll joins more than 175 diverse representations in the Barbie Fashionistas line, including dolls with Down Syndrome, hearing aids, and other visible disabilities — ensuring more children can see themselves in the stories they imagine.
