Villanova Sophomore Publishes Inspiring Book on Living with Type 1 Diabetes
Morgan Panzirer, a sophomore at Villanova University, has published her first book, 'Actually, I Can: Growing Up with Type 1 Diabetes, A Story of Unexpected Empowerment'. The book aims to clarify misconceptions about T1D and encourage readers to embrace diabetes management devices. It also seeks to show that T1D can be viewed as an opportunity rather than an obstacle in the diabetes community.
Panzirer, who was diagnosed with T1D at age 6 in 2007, shares her personal journey with the condition. She discusses her experiences with hypothyroidism and her advocacy efforts with JDRF. The book also covers her sister Caroline's diagnosis as a teenager in 2017. Panzirer highlights the emotional toll of diabetes and emphasizes the importance of resilience and strength in managing the condition in the community.
Panzirer's family has a history of involvement in the diabetes community. Her father heads the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, which has contributed over $1 billion to T1D research and advocacy. Panzirer herself is known for her work as a promoter of reward-based behavioral motivation and as a supporter of inclusion, especially for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the community. Her career goal is to become a pediatric endocrinologist to help other families with diabetes in the community.
In 'Actually, I Can', Panzirer shares her story of growing up with T1D and finding unexpected empowerment. She aims to inspire children, families, and others to embrace diabetes management devices and view T1D as an opportunity in the community. With her family's history in the diabetes community and her personal experiences, Panzirer's book offers a unique perspective on living with T1D in the community.
