Julia Flaherty, Project Management Lead
Like many people living with chronic illnesses, Julia has had a complicated relationship with type 1 diabetes over the years. Despite having a strong independent grasp on diabetes management since 10 years old, the emotional burdens of diabetes have weighed heavily at times. From being a 17-year-old who didn’t want to talk about type 1 diabetes and felt ashamed to show it, Julia has found self-acceptance and empowerment as an adult that she aims to translate into her work at Beyond Type 1.
Julia’s greatest aspiration is to use her time, talents, experiences, and skills to effect positive change. Julia has worked in wholesale fashion, niche beauty, entertainment, technology, and publishing throughout her career.
Julia is a published children’s book author, illustrator, writer and editor, award-winning digital marketer, content creator, and diabetes advocate. You can find Julia’s books, “Rosie Becomes a Warrior” and “Rosie the Type 1 Diabetes Warrior Goes to Diabetes Summer Camp” on Amazon (available in English and Spanish). Julia finds therapy in fostering friendships within the diabetes community. Being able to contribute to its progress brings her joy. Julia loves connecting with people, being creative, and storytelling.
You will find her attempting to make the best at-home iced coffee, taking walks on gorgeous sunny days, coming up with her next big story idea, spending quality time with loved ones, or diving into a new art project in her free time.
Connect with Julia on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter.
Written by Julia


Dexcom Explains the Benefits of G7 for People With Gestational Diabetes
Jacob Leach, Dexcom COO, shares how the use of Dexcom G7 in people with gestational diabetes can improve patient outcomes.MORE

How to Safely Take a Break from Your Continuous Glucose Monitor
If you want or have to take a break from your CGM, follow these tips to develop a solid management plan and manage your low blood sugar levels safely.MORE

Julia’s Story: Not What Dreams Are Made Of
A personality shift, extreme thirst, losing weight, and cravings at strange times were all signs Julia had type 1 diabetes.MORE

Freestyle Libre 2 and 3 Receive FDA Clearance for Integration with Automated Insulin Delivery Systems
Abbott, makers of the Freestyle Libre 2 and 3, modified their sensors to enable integration with automated insulin delivery systems. Here’s what you should know!MORE

‘Drag Race’ Star, Daya Betty, Encourages People with Diabetes to Live a Life They Love
Beyond Type 1 sat down with “RuPaul’s Drag Race” star Daya Betty to talk about diabetes, traveling as a performer, and leaning on friends and ‘Drag Race’ sisters for support.MORE

11 Diabetes Podcasts You Should Listen To
Are you looking for another way to connect with the diabetes community in 2023? Consider giving these diabetes podcasts a listen!MORE

Sometimes There is No Lesson in Diabetes + That’s Okay
Beyond Type 1 Content Manager, Julia Flaherty, reflects on the past 19 years of living with diabetes ahead of her diaversary.MORE

SugarPixel Makes Blood Sugar Readings Fun
SugarPixel is the coolest way to see your real-time blood sugar readings through a Dexcom G6 or NightScout app connection.MORE

How egglife wraps Impacted My Blood Sugar Levels + Tastebuds
Egglife may be your next best low-carb find if you’re looking for a low-carb tortilla option. Here’s how the wraps impacted my blood glucose levels and tastebuds.MORE

Less Stress, More Peace: Using a CGM with Diabetes
Diabetes influencer, Lexie Peterson, sat down with Beyond Type 1 to share her thoughts on Freestyle Libre’s evolution and how she stays positive with diabetes.MORE

Freestyle Libre 3 Now Available in Pharmacies Across the U.S.
On Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022, Abbott—makers of the Freestyle Libre 3—announced that the product is now available in pharmacies nationwide.MORE

COVID-19 + Flu Vaccines for Fall 2022: What You Should Know
Considering a COVID-19 booster and flu shot for fall? Here's what you should know, including answers to some frequently asked questions!MORE

5 Fun Back-to-School Lunch Ideas for Your Type 1 Kiddo
Did your type 1 kiddo just head back to school? Here are some fun and simple lunch ideas to fit you and your child’s busy life!MORE

Diabetes Data Apps: What’s Available + How They Work
In this guide, we describe some of the most popular diabetes data apps used today—maybe ones you’ve never heard of—plus their benefits!MORE

This New Product Could Help Identify Your Risk of Developing Kidney Disease
With this new product, you can test your risk of developing diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and create a preventative care plan with your doctor, if needed. MORE

Can Emergency Responders in Your Town Administer Glucagon?
Not every emergency responder can administer glucagon. Find out whether an EMT near you can—and what to do if they can’t!MORE

Live with Diabetes? You May Be Eligible for a Free Lifetime National Park Access Pass
Did you know that you might be able to get free entry to U.S. national parks if you live with type 1 or type 2 diabetes? Here’s how!MORE

‘Purple Hearts’: How the Creators Tackled Diabetes Representation in the Film
Beyond Type 1 sat down with the creators of “Purple Hearts” to discuss their steps to ensure an accurate and effective representation of type 1 diabetes.MORE

‘Purple Hearts’ Delivers a Realistic, Unforgettable Main Character with Type 1 Diabetes
This review contains spoilers from the new Netflix movie, “Purple Hearts,” starring Sofia Carson as Cassie, an aspiring singer living with type 1 diabetes.MORE

UnitedHealthcare Announces $0 Copay on Insulin, Glucagon + More, Beginning in 2023
UnitedHealthcare announced a $0 copay on insulin, glucagon and other drugs starting in 2023. Here's what that could mean for UHC members.MORE

How to Get a Continuous Glucose Monitor Without Health Insurance
Pricing is a massive barrier to diabetes meds and tech. This guide provides actionable tips to help you get a CGM without health insurance and save money.MORE

What to Do If You Run Out of CGM Supplies Away from Home
If you ever forget your CGM supplies away from home, you’re not entirely out of luck. Here’s what you can do if this ever happens to you!MORE

The Pros + Cons of CGM Data for Diabetes Management
Continuous glucose monitors are excellent diabetes management tools, but it's easy to become over-stimulated by data and alarms...MORE

The Ins and Outs of FSAs + HSAs for People with Diabetes
Curious about health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts? Here’s how they could benefit you if you live with diabetes!MORE

New Book Helps Children with Type 1 Diabetes Overcome Summer Camp Anxiety
Feeling a little nervous about diabetes summer camp? You’re not alone. Join Rosie the T1D Warrior on her first summer camp adventure! MORE

Books for Children with Type 1 Diabetes
Are you looking for children’s books about diabetes to add to your bookshelf or classroom? Here are some worth considering!MORE




Researchers Talk: Past, Present, and Future of Pancreas Transplants
Are pancreas transplants the way of the future for people with diabetes? Here’s what you should know about the procedure.MORE





Dexcom CEO Talks: Product Differences, Cost Expectations, and Mental Health
The CEO of Dexcom sat down with Beyond Type 1 at the American Diabetes Association’s 82nd Annual Scientific Sessions to talk all things G7.MORE





Challenges + Solutions for Underserved Communities in East Los Angeles
People living with diabetes in East L.A. face many challenges in getting the care they need. Is Blue Circle Health a potential solution?MORE







The Negative Impact of Diabetes Stigma: “Words create reality”
Key behavioral science research proves the impact of attitudes and words on people living with diabetes and why those stigmas must change.MORE





Weight Bias + Diabetes: “Stigma does not motivate anyone”
In this coverage, we share research highlighting how weight bias affects people with diabetes and what can be done to change public attitudes.MORE





Beta Cell Replacement Therapy: A Pathway to a Cure for Type 1 Diabetes?
Does beta cell replacement therapy present a pathway to a cure for T1D? Here’s what new research tells us about current limits and solutions.MORE







COVID-19 + Type 1 Diabetes: New Research Explores Possible Connections
These are the latest updates regarding the impact of COVID-19 on people with T1D and whether COVID-19 poses a risk for developing it.MORE



Getting Real About Data: The Pros + Cons of Diabetes Technology
Smart insulin pens, diabetes management platforms, and insulin pumps—oh my! Data is great, but too much can be overwhelming.MORE



Abbott’s Freestyle Libre 3 Receives FDA Approval
The Freestyle Libre 3, the world's smallest continuous glucose monitor, offering several improvements and updates from the Libre 2, has received FDA approval.MORE



Books for Adults with Type 1 Diabetes
Are you looking for your next great read? Here are some of the best diabetes books we recommend to adults with type 1 diabetes!MORE



Diabetes Book Review: “Rage Bolus and Other Poems”
Ready for your next great read? Here’s our review of “Rage Bolus and Other Poems,” plus more reading suggestions for people with diabetes!MORE



How to Handle High Blood Sugar Emergencies at Work
Recruiting a trusted circle of people who understand your diabetes can help you if you face a diabetes emergency at work, like severe high blood sugar.MORE



How to Handle Low Blood Sugar Emergencies at Work
Recruiting a trusted circle of people who understand your diabetes can help you if you face a diabetes emergency at work, like severe low blood sugar.MORE



How to Create a Less Stressful Insulin Injection Routine
It’s essential to find ways to create less stress in a life with diabetes. Try these tips and tricks when you’re feeling overwhelmed about your insulin injection routine!MORE



The iLet Bionic Pancreas is the Next Step in Autonomous Insulin Therapy
Are you ready for the next step in closed-loop technology? Here’s what you need to know about the iLet Bionic Pancreas.MORE



Tips for Talking to Your Teenager with Diabetes: Avoiding Shame + Blame
Are you struggling to connect with your teen with diabetes? Here are tips for talking to them without judgment when they're struggling.MORE



The Future of Diabetes Patient Care Needs to Go Beyond A1c
A group of leading diabetes professionals addressed the future of patient care at ATTD 2022. Here’s what you should know about their findings.MORE



Yes, I Lied About My Blood Sugar Levels as a Teenager with Diabetes
This is what happened when I didn’t get the emotional support I needed to thrive as a teenager with type 1 diabetes.MORE



Your Guide to CGM Access + Affordability
In this guide, we share tips and resources for getting access to a CGM whether you are insured, uninsured or underinsured.MORE



How to Find Therapy Online
Online and telehealth options for therapy can help you personalize your mental healthcare to fit your life.MORE



Glitter Glucose is on a Mission to Help Everyone Find Power in Diabetes
Paloma, also known as Glitter Glucose, shares who she’s inspired by in the diabetes community and how Freestyle Libre devices have positively impacted her life.MORE



Is it Worth it to Get the Dexcom G6 if G7 is Right Around the Corner?
The anticipation about Dexcom G7 is exciting, but should people exploring a CGM for the first time wait or go for the G6? Here’s our advice!MORE



Managing Low Blood Sugars as a Mom with Type 1 Diabetes
Work and family can make it feel like type 1 diabetes management comes third. Here are tips and encouragement to help you make time for your diabetes needs, too!MORE



The Differences Between Biosimilar, Human and Analog Insulins
Insulin falls into several categories. In this article, we break down the differences between biosimilar, human and analog insulin products.MORE



Which Diabetes Supplies Can be Recycled?
Recycling can be confusing! This guide breaks down whether your diabetes supplies are recyclable, garbage, biohazardous or e-waste.MORE



What to Do with Extra or Expired Diabetes Supplies + Meds
If you ever are in the position to donate surplus or dispose of expired medications, here are some guidelines you should pay attention to by region!MORE



Years I’ll Never Get Back: Body Dysmorphia, Type 1 Diabetes and Self-Love
Loving my body was hard—it shouldn’t have been. TRIGGER WARNING: This story includes a personal account of disordered eating while living with type 1 diabetes.MORE



A Second COVID-19 Booster Dose + The Latest Omicron Variant
Keeping up with the latest COVID-19 shot and variant news can be difficult. Here’s what you should know about Omicron XE and a second booster!MORE



Breaking Down Barriers to Diversify Diabetes Conversations
Author and CEO Shaina Hatchell, spoke to BT1 about her company, The BSI Collective, writing “Shia Learns” and how she’s helping to diversify diabetes conversations.MORE



Why Won’t My Insurance Cover a Continuous Glucose Monitor?
Are you facing challenges getting insurance to cover a CGM? Here are some common reasons insurance denies CGM coverage and what you can do about it!MORE



Drug Rebates, Insulin and Affording Life with Diabetes in the United States
The issues surrounding drug rebates in the U.S. highlight the need for reform, especially when it comes to insulin and living with diabetes.MORE



What is Sliding Scale Insulin Therapy?
Do you use insulin to manage your type 1 diabetes? Here’s how sliding scale insulin therapy may work for you!MORE



How to Advocate for Your Diabetes Needs with Your Doctor
Talking about our healthcare needs can be anxiety-inducing if we’re not used to it—but the more we do it, the more likely our diabetes care needs will be met.MORE



The Affordable Insulin Now Act: A Step Toward Federal Legislation
The Affordable Insulin Now Act, if passed in its current form, could help bring down the cost of insulin for millions of insured people with diabetes.MORE



COVID-19 Pushes FDA Approval of Breakthrough Device Designation for Dexcom CGM in Hospital Settings
The FDA has granted Breakthrough Device Designation for Dexcom CGM in hospital settings after the pandemic highlighted essential care needs for patients with diabetes.MORE



You Can Screen for Type 1 Diabetes Autoantibodies—When Will it Become Standard Childhood Healthcare?
A type 1 diabetes diagnosis doesn’t have to be a surprise (or only be caught after dangerously high blood sugars). Screening for T1D is available for everyone, so when will it become part of standar...MORE



Eversense E3 Continuous Glucose Monitor Gains FDA Approval, Offers Extended Wear-Time
The Eversense E3 continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is an exciting advancement for the diabetes community, with improved wear-time and accuracy.MORE



8 Things People with Diabetes Should Know to Save Money on Taxes
Are you getting ready to file your taxes? Not so fast! Consider the benefits of itemizing your deductions to get your max tax refund.MORE



Inside the Drug Pricing Investigation from the House Oversight and Reform Committee
The results of the most recent report from the committee make things clear for the United States — the need for access to affordable healthcare is direr than ever.MORE



The Potential Impact of Build Back Better on American Healthcare
Dive into the basics of Build Back Better, why people with diabetes should follow the bill as it progresses, and the impact it could have on your health.MORE



Mark Cuban’s New Online Pharmacy Provides Affordable Access to Some Common Prescription Drugs
Mark Cuban's latest investment in the pharmaceutical industry offers common generic prescription medications (not including insulin) at a fraction of the cost.MORE



What It’s Like to Work From Home With Type 1 Diabetes
We asked, and you answered — the T1D community shares the pros and cons they’ve encountered while working from home!MORE



How to Lean in and Find the Gratitude in a Life with Type 1 Diabetes
Burnout is bound to happen when you’re managing T1D, whether it’s been a few years or 18+. Start to find acceptance despite the endless cycle.MORE



Insulin Pumps Aren’t for Everyone…and That’s Okay!
Deciding whether you want to stay on an insulin pump or start one? Here are the honest pros and cons this author experienced with Omnipod!MORE



What You Should Know About The Latest COVID-19 Variant
If you’re struggling to keep up with the latest news about COVID-19 variants, we have you covered. Here’s what you should know about omicron.MORE



The Greatest Gift I Received When My Insulin Pump Failed Last Christmas
Miserable blood sugar levels aren’t exempt from the special days of your life. Julia Flaherty explains her experience last Christmas that ultimately led her to stop insulin pump therapy.MORE



“Rosie Becomes a Warrior” Cares for Your Child and Your Inner-Child
Advocate and creator Julia Flaherty shares the story behind “Rosie Becomes a Warrior” - a book for children navigating type 1 diabetes.MORE



16 Years Later, Here’s What My Childhood with T1D Taught Me
When I was first diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, I remember being sent to the hospital for five days. One of the first questions I asked...MORE



It Took a Pandemic for Me to Switch to an Insulin Pump
I had considered one before, but it wasn’t until COVID-19 struck that I decided I needed to reinvestigate an insulin pump for my health.MORE



Mail Order Pharmacy is Booming – Here’s What to Look Out For
If you have diabetes, here are the benefits, plus what to look out for with costs and convenience, when receiving meds by mail.MORE



All About State-Based Insulin Price Cap Laws
While we advocate for federal actions on insulin pricing, state based insulin price cap laws are leading the charge. MORE



Summer is Here: Are You Still Safer at Home?
Social distancing guidelines have become a bit fuzzy. Learn what measures you can continue to take to keep yourself and others safe from COVID-19.MORE



Mental Health Resources for People with Type 1 Diabetes
People with type 1 diabetes have an increased risk for mental health issues. If you or someone you love is struggling, these resources may help.MORE



Managing Diabetes Without Health Insurance
If you've just lost your health insurance coverage or are struggling to afford your medications and supplies, start here.MORE



People’s Top 10 Fears
You may feel like an outsider for freaking out over certain things, but, odds are you share more fears with your neighbor than you would believe. So, don’t be embarrassed. These top 10 fears (in no ...MORE



Romance my Pancreas, or Its Lack of Functioning
There is nothing romantic or dreamy about having to inject oneself with insulin, often, four times a day. It is not exactly sexy to roll up your shirt, and stick your belly with a needle, or roll down...MORE



Living a More Convenient Truth—12 Years In
There's a quotation from C.S. Lewis that I tend to quote to keep me motivated and feeling assured: "You don't have a soul. You have a body. You are a soul."MORE


