Type 1 Ties exists to build a supportive community for individuals and families affected by Type 1 Diabetes.
We connect people through handmade bracelets, meaningful acts of encouragement, educational resources, community events, and opportunities to give back. Whether online or in person, we strive to create spaces where people feel understood, supported, and empowered to navigate life with T1D.
By raising awareness, providing peer support, and fundraising for organizations advancing Type 1 Diabetes research and care, we are working toward a future where no one faces this journey alone.
After being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age thirteen, Type 1 Ties founder, Lila Kate, experienced the fear and uncertainty that comes with suddenly feeling different. Remembering how much she enjoyed making bracelets, she created one for herself as a reminder of strength and hope. Soon after, she made another bracelet for another newly diagnosed child, turning a small act of kindness into a movement of connection, encouragement, and support for the T1D community.
We bring together children, teens, adults, families, and supporters through local gatherings, virtual events, educational programs, and service opportunities. Our handmade bracelets serve as symbols of hope and belonging, reminding each recipient that they are part of a community that cares.
T1Ties is honored to connect with organizations and medical communities dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by Type 1 Diabetes. We are grateful for support, collaboration, and connections from UVA Pediatric Endocrinology, Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen, Denmark and Breakthrough T1D.
Through education, advocacy, fundraising, and peer support, we aim to increase awareness of Type 1 Diabetes while fostering friendships that extend far beyond a diagnosis.
A Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis can bring a wave of uncertainty, questions, and emotions. Suddenly, everyday life looks different, and it can be easy to feel isolated or overwhelmed. Type 1 Ties was created from the belief that no one should have to navigate that journey alone.
Type 1 Ties began with one bracelet and one simple idea: a small act of kindness can create a powerful connection.
After being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes as a teenager, founder Lila Kate Robinson experienced firsthand the fear and loneliness that can come with a life-changing diagnosis. Looking for a way to process the changes around her, she returned to something that had always brought her comfort: making bracelets. What started as a bracelet made for herself soon became a bracelet made for another person with T1D, carrying a message of encouragement and the reminder that someone else understood.
That single bracelet became the beginning of Type 1 Ties.
Today, Type 1 Ties has grown into a community focused on connection, support, education, and awareness. Through handmade bracelets, peer relationships, community gatherings, virtual events, educational opportunities, and service projects, we bring together children, teens, adults, families, and supporters affected by Type 1 Diabetes.
Our vision is a world where every person affected by Type 1 Diabetes feels connected, understood, and empowered. We imagine a future where a diagnosis does not mean facing uncertainty alone, but joining a community ready to offer support, friendship, and hope.
Type 1 Ties is more than a bracelet. It is a reminder that every person has a story, every connection matters, and together we are stronger.
One bracelet. One conversation. One connection at a time.