Level One Game Makes Navigating Type 1 Diabetes a Little Easier

When Sam Glassenberg‘s five-year-old daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D), his family’s life changed overnight. 

What was once routine became a daily test of resilience. But from the challenge, Sam found purpose—transforming his family’s experience into a guide for others managing diabetes.

The Glassenberg family’s journey with type 1 diabetes

Like many families affected by diabetes, Sam and his wife, Judith, learned the courage it takes to meet each day. 

Both highly accomplished—Sam as a Stanford-trained computer engineer and Judith as a pediatrician—you might assume their expertise eased the transition. 

But T1D doesn’t come with a manual.

Parents or caregivers know that no degree or skill can prepare someone for the whirlwind of emotions and practical challenges diabetes brings. Even the most knowledgeable individuals can feel lost.

For Sam and Judith, this was an overwhelming learning curve. But through trial and error, they developed the insight and skills to help their daughter thrive.

Turning diabetes challenges into innovative solutions

Sam’s focus quickly shifted from running his video game studio to becoming his daughter’s stand-in pancreas.

The first weeks centered on endless calculations. 

• How much insulin for the carbs? 
• What if blood sugar dips too low? 
• What about spikes? 
• What is time in range?

Judith and Sam felt lost and exhausted trying to manage their daughter’s needs. Nights were interrupted by alarms signaling dangerous lows. Days became a blur of carb counting and insulin adjustments. Every decision felt overwhelming.

Reflecting on this nine-month journey of trial and error, Sam knew there had to be a better way. His background in video games became the unexpected bridge. 

Combining his professional expertise with personal experience, Sam found the solution in an educational tool that could simplify diabetes management for families.

Level One: A game-changer

Inspired by his daughter, Sam created Level One, a free mobile game that turns complex diabetes education into visual, interactive lessons.

Instead of intimidating medical jargon, players meet a friendly nurse character who guides them through tasks such as:

• Carb counting.
• Insulin dosing.
• Managing hypoglycemia through effective diabetes management techniques.

Imagine tapping buttons instead of worrying about “getting it wrong.” Level One transforms months of complex diabetes education into just hours of engaging gameplay. 

Designed for people of all ages, it equips users with the confidence and knowledge needed for real-life scenarios.

Sam poured his heart and expertise into making the game accessible to all. 

His motivation? 

To spare other families the overwhelming trial-and-error approach his family endured. 

Every tap of the game is built on his family’s journey, emphasizing that even the most challenging moments can spark innovation and hope.

Level One: Accessible and free diabetes education for all

Level One’s intuitive design makes it easy to use. 

A two-button interface, captivating visuals and rhythm-based puzzles simplify diabetes management for users of all ages. 

The best part? It’s completely free, with no in-app purchases or subscription fees.

Guided by an in-game nurse, players gain confidence navigating insulin dosing, managing high blood sugar, and correcting dangerous lows. The visually immersive gameplay transforms the stress of learning into an empowering, supportive experience.

Level One: A human-centered approach to diabetes education and support

For Sam’s daughter, Level One isn’t just a game—it’s a tool that brings her family peace of mind and hope. 

This personal connection shines through, making the project feel deeply human. 

The love and dedication behind Level One are palpable. It’s more than an app—it’s Sam’s way of giving back to the diabetes community, ensuring no one feels alone on their journey.

How you can get Level One

Ready to try Level One? 

Level One content is available now in the App Store (iOS). as well as Google Play for Android.

Level One is fully accessible, with no in-app purchases or subscription fees.

For more info, go to playlevelone.com.

Whether you’re a caregiver, a newly diagnosed patient, or simply seeking to better understand T1D, Level One offers an engaging, user-friendly way to confidently navigate diabetes management.