Mattel has recently introduced a Barbie doll with Diabetes as part of its inclusive Fashionistas line.¹ This new doll aims to help children living with Type 1 Diabetes see themselves reflected in their toys and to foster greater understanding and empathy in all children.²

Barbie Doll with Diabetes:Type 1 Diabetes

The debut of the Barbie with Type 1 Diabetes is a significant stride in Mattel’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion. This thoughtfully designed doll comes equipped with realistic medical accessories that mirror the daily experiences of those managing Type 1 Diabetes.³

“Barbie helps shape children’s early perceptions of the world, and by reflecting medical conditions like T1D, we ensure more kids can see themselves in the stories they imagine and the dolls they love”⁴

Krista Berger, Senior Vice President of Barbie and Global Head of Dolls, Mattell

Barbie Doll With Diabetes: Breakthrough T1D CGM

To ensure accuracy and genuine representation, Mattel collaborated closely with Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF), a leading global organization dedicated to Type 1 Diabetes research and advocacy.⁵ This partnership was crucial in developing a doll that truly captures the community’s experience.

Key features of the Barbie with Type 1 Diabetes include:

• Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM): The doll wears a CGM on her arm, secured with heart-shaped, Barbie-pink medical tape.⁶ She also has a phone displaying a CGM app, reflecting how blood sugar levels are tracked in real life (Breakthrough T1D, 2025).⁷
• Insulin Pump: An insulin pump is attached at her waist, a small, wearable medical device that allows for automated insulin dosing as needed (People.com, 2025).⁸
• Symbolic Outfit: Barbie wears a stylish blue polka dot top and matching ruffled skirt.⁹ Both the color blue and the circle print are intentional nods to the global symbols representing diabetes awareness (Times Union, 2025).¹⁰
• Essential Accessories: The doll also comes with a pastel blue purse, perfect for carrying Type 1 Diabetes supplies or snacks, which are essential for blood sugar management (Womens Agenda, 2025).¹¹

Impact and Inspiration: Seeing Themselves in Play

The introduction of this Barbie doll has been met with widespread positive reactions, especially from the Type 1 Diabetes community. Many individuals who grew up without such representation are expressing joy and gratitude, recognizing the profound impact this doll will have on current and future generations of children with diabetes. It helps normalize living with a chronic condition and can spark important conversations within families and communities. As it is written in Philippians 4:8 (CJB): “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of respect, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is in good repute, if there is any excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy, think about these things.” This doll, in its truthfulness and positive representation, certainly embodies these qualities, offering a powerful message of inclusion and empowerment.

The Barbie with Type 1 Diabetes is part of the broader Barbie Fashionistas line, which has expanded significantly to include dolls with various skin tones, hair textures, body types, and other medical conditions and disabilities, such as vitiligo, prosthetic limbs, Down syndrome, and hearing aids (Mattel Corporate, 2025).¹² This ongoing commitment by Mattel highlights the importance of toys reflecting the diverse world children live in.

Sources:

• Breakthrough T1D. (2025). Barbie With Type 1 Diabetes. Retrieved from https://www.throught1d.org/barbie/
• Mattel Corporate. (2025, July 8). Barbie® Introduces First-Ever Barbie Doll with Type 1 Diabetes to Expand Representation and Inspire More Children.¹³ Retrieved from https://corporate.mattel.com/news/barbie-introduces-first-ever-barbie-doll-with-type-1-diabetes-to-expand-representation-and-inspire-more-children
• People.com. (2025, July 8). Barbie with Type 1 Diabetes Makes Her Debut, Comes with Pink Glucose Monitor and Insulin Pump.¹⁴ Retrieved from https://people.com/barbie-with-type-1-diabetes-comes-with-pink-glucose-monitor-and-insulin-pump-11768015
• Times Union. (2025, July 9). Mattel introduces its first Barbie with Type 1 diabetes.¹⁵ Retrieved from https://www.timesunion.com/living/article/mattel-introduces-its-first-barbie-with-type-1-20762900.php
• Womens Agenda. (2025, July 9). New Barbie doll with Type 1 Diabetes comes with insulin pump and glucose monitor.¹⁶ Retrieved from https://womensagenda.com.au/latest/new-barbie-doll-with-type-1-diabetes-comes-with-insulin-pump-and-glucose-monitor/