Sandison, Sierra

While Sierra was growing up, she struggled with her self-esteem and trying to fit in, as well as with finding her identity. After being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 18, she hated her disease-not only because it was affecting her health, but also because of how it made her feel more different than she already was. She refused to wear an insulin pump until she heard about Nicole Johnson, Miss America 1999. Nicole, who also lives with T1D, quickly became Sierra's hero. Nicole's example helped Sierra develop an empowering confidence, which transformed her life. Sierra made it her g...