In a groundbreaking step towards inclusivity and awareness, Mattel has unveiled the world’s first Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes (T1D), marking a significant milestone in representation for children living with this condition. This new addition to the beloved Barbie Fashionistas line not only reflects the medical realities of those with T1D but also celebrates strength, resilience, and the importance of embracing differences.
Developed in close partnership with Breakthrough T1D, a leading global research and advocacy organization formerly known as JDRF, the doll features authentic medical devices that many with type 1 diabetes use daily. These include a pink continuous glucose monitor (CGM) worn on the arm, an insulin pump attached to the waist, and a smartphone displaying a CGM app, all designed to accurately represent the technology that helps manage blood sugar levels.
The doll’s outfit is a stylish blue polka-dot top and matching skirt, with the color blue and circle print symbolizing diabetes awareness worldwide. Accompanying the doll is a pastel blue handbag, perfect for carrying essential supplies and snacks, emphasizing practicality alongside fashion. This thoughtful design reflects Mattel’s commitment to crafting dolls that resonate deeply with children’s lived experiences.
British supermodel and type 1 diabetes advocate Lila Moss, daughter of iconic model Kate Moss, has been intimately involved in the creation of a one-of-a-kind Barbie doll made in her likeness. Diagnosed with T1D at age 12, Moss has long been a visible and confident advocate, famously wearing her insulin pump and glucose monitor on high-profile fashion runways and events. Her bespoke doll features a CGM patch on the right arm, an insulin pump on the left thigh, and a personal diabetes manager device tucked into her handbag. Moss’s doll sports a chic black halterneck mini dress, tousled blonde hair, minimal gold jewelry, and her signature black biker boots, encapsulating her personal style.
Reflecting on the experience, Moss described the project as "a sort of healing experience" for the child she once was, recalling fond memories of playing with Barbie dolls at her grandmother’s house. She expressed pride in representing the T1D community through this collaboration, noting, "I get so many messages every day about how I’ve helped someone be less insecure or helped them be more proud of their diabetes patches." She emphasized the importance of embracing medical technology, stating, "It’s really important to embrace these patches and having them, and not hiding them or being insecure about them – I think it’s really cool to have them." The doll, priced at £13.99, was released on July 9, 2025, and has already garnered enthusiastic responses from families and advocates alike.
Krista Berger, Senior Vice President of Barbie and Global Head of Dolls at Mattel, highlighted the broader significance of this launch, saying, "Introducing a Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes marks an important step in our commitment to inclusivity and representation. Barbie helps shape children’s early perceptions of the world, and by reflecting medical conditions like type 1 diabetes, we ensure more kids can see themselves in the stories they imagine and the dolls they love." This sentiment underscores the role toys play in fostering empathy, self-confidence, and social understanding among children.
The initiative also aligns with research conducted by Barbie and Cardiff University, which found that doll play during key developmental stages can nurture empathy and social skills, helping children imagine their futures on an equal footing. By incorporating medical devices and conditions into their dolls, Mattel is broadening the narratives children can explore through play, making room for diverse experiences and challenges.
Breakthrough T1D CEO Karen Addington MBE expressed her excitement about the doll’s potential impact: "I’m absolutely thrilled that Barbie now includes a doll with type 1 diabetes. For children with type 1 diabetes who don’t often see themselves represented, this doll will be a powerful role model, celebrating their strength and bringing recognition, inclusion, and joy to their play." The organization also benefits directly from this collaboration, with Mattel UK donating £20,000 to support ongoing research, education, and support for the T1D community, a gift made in Lila Moss’s name.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that typically develops in childhood and requires lifelong management. It affects roughly 30,000 children in the UK alone, a number that continues to rise. Unlike type 2 diabetes, which is often linked to lifestyle factors, T1D demands constant vigilance, including blood sugar monitoring, insulin administration, and careful dietary management. These daily challenges can be emotionally taxing, especially for young children navigating school and social environments.
Experts and advocates believe that inclusive toys like the T1D Barbie can play a crucial role in normalizing medical differences and reducing stigma. By seeing their experiences reflected in beloved toys, children with diabetes can feel more confident and less isolated. Moreover, these dolls can spark conversations among peers and caregivers, fostering greater understanding and empathy.
The UK community has warmly embraced the new Barbie doll. Parents have shared their excitement about the doll’s potential to help children feel seen and supported. One parent commented on Reddit, "My T1D kiddo plays with Barbies so this will be an exciting day when she gets one," illustrating the emotional significance such representation holds.
Lila Moss’s involvement adds a deeply personal touch to the project. Beyond modeling, she has become a vocal advocate for T1D awareness, using her platform to educate and inspire. She hopes the doll encourages others with diabetes to proudly display their medical devices, reinforcing her message that "we don’t need to hide our differences." Moss’s own journey, from receiving messages of gratitude to confidently showcasing her insulin pump on international runways, exemplifies the power of visibility.
Alongside Moss’s bespoke doll, Mattel’s mainline Fashionistas collection now includes the T1D Barbie, complete with authentic medical accessories and a blue polka-dot outfit inspired by global diabetes awareness symbols. The inclusion of this doll within a diverse lineup that already features dolls with disabilities such as blindness, Down syndrome, and hearing aids, further demonstrates Mattel’s commitment to reflecting the rich tapestry of real-world experiences.
As the world continues to grapple with rising health challenges and a growing call for inclusivity, the launch of the type 1 diabetes Barbie stands as a beacon of progress. It not only celebrates children living with T1D but also educates and inspires a broader audience, fostering empathy and understanding from an early age. Through this innovative collaboration, Mattel and Breakthrough T1D are setting a new standard for representation in children’s toys, proving that even a doll can make a profound difference.
