Nick Jonas and Cultural Icons Launch Campaign with Beyond Type 1 to Break Diabetes Stigma

Nick Jonas has teamed up with Beyond Type 1 to launch a powerful campaign aimed at breaking the stigma surrounding diabetes. The initiative features a poignant video that tells authentic stories from a diverse group of athletes, advocates, and artists.
Campaign Overview
The campaign emphasizes moving beyond common misconceptions associated with diabetes. The central message promotes the idea that a diabetes diagnosis does not limit potential or identity.
Key Messages and Objectives
Nick Jonas stated, “For the past decade, Beyond Type 1 has been changing the story around diabetes.” He emphasized that the video portrays the resilience within the diabetes community. It highlights that life with diabetes is filled with opportunities, encouraging individuals to embrace their diagnosis as a source of inspiration.
Dispelling Myths
- People with diabetes can consume sugar.
- Individuals can participate in sports.
- Healthy pregnancies are possible for those diagnosed.
These misconceptions contribute to the stigma that many people face. Deborah Dugan, CEO of Beyond Type 1, noted how stigma affects self-perception and can lead to isolation and delayed medical care.
Featured Personalities
In addition to Nick Jonas, the video showcases several notable figures:
- Billy Porter – Emmy, Tony, and Grammy Award winner living with type 2 diabetes.
- Adonai Mitchell – Football star with type 1 diabetes.
- Sam Morrison – Comedian managing type 1 diabetes.
- Pietro Marsala – The first FAA-approved insulin-dependent commercial pilot.
- Lauren Bongiorno – Diabetes advocate and CEO of Risely Health.
The campaign also features cameos from actress Punam Patel and journalist Liz Plank. It is co-written by Sam Morrison and Hari Kondabolu, directed by Shruti Ganguly, and produced by Honto 88.
Join the Conversation
The video, titled “Beyond the Misconceptions,” is available on YouTube. Beyond Type 1 encourages those with diabetes to share their own stories to help reshape the narrative and diminish stigma. Follow Beyond Type 1 on Instagram and TikTok to engage with the community.
About Beyond Type 1
Founded in 2015 by Nick Jonas and Juliet de Baubigny, Beyond Type 1 is a global nonprofit organization. It aims to redefine life with diabetes, offering tools, education, and support for individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. For more information, visit BeyondType1.org.