Barbie just got a little more real. No, she’s not suddenly going through a quarter-life crisis or hosting a podcast—we mean real as in relatable. Mattel has introduced the very first Barbie with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) to help kids with this chronic medical condition feel seen and create awareness among people.
Joining the ever-expanding Barbie Fashionistas line, the new doll reflects what countless kids and families live with every day. She’s got the gear: a CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitor) on her arm with Barbie-pink heart tape (of course), a waist-worn insulin pump, and a smartphone app to track her blood sugar. She even comes dressed in a blue polka dot outfit—a nod to global diabetes awareness—with a pastel purse for stashing supplies or snacks on the go.
This isn’t just a token representation. Barbie worked closely with Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) to make sure everything was accurate, right down to the ruffles. And as a sweet gesture, Mattel also donated dolls to the Breakthrough T1D Children’s Congress in D.C., where 170 kids with T1D met with lawmakers.
To top it off, two real-life role models—Peloton’s Robin Arzón and model Lila Moss—were honored with custom dolls of their own. Both live with T1D and have been using their platforms to spread awareness like champs.
So yeah, Barbie’s still out here evolving. She’s already had hearing aids, a prosthetic leg, and vitiligo—now she’s helping normalize something millions deal with daily. No need for pink convertibles this time—this ride is about visibility.
The 2025 Barbie Fashionistas dolls, including the one with T1D, are available now from Mattel Shop and retailers nationwide, including Walmart.
Images: Mattel.
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