Theresa May: Leading a Nation with T1D
Being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes can feel like a big challenge- especially when you’re thinking about your future. Can I still go after big goals? Can I take on responsibility? Can I lead?
Theresa May, former Primer Minister of the United Kingdom, is proof that the answer to all those questions is a massive YES.
Who is Theresa May?
Theresa May served as the Prime Minister of the UK from 2016 to 2019, making her only the second woman in history to hold that role (after Margaret Thatcher). She was also Home Secretary for six years before that.
What makes her especially inspiring to young people with Type 1 Diabetes? She did all of that while managing T1D- one of the most demanding jobs in the world, while living with a condition that requires constant care and attention.
When Was She Diagnosed?
Theresa May was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 56, just a few years before becoming Prime Minister. At first, doctors thought she had Type 2 diabetes, but further tests confirmed it to be Type 1.
Rather than letting it stop her, she took it in stride. “Diabetes doesn’t change what you can do. You just have to get on with it.” - Theresa May, speaking to Diabetes UK.
How Did She Manage Diabetes While Leading a Country?
Imagine juggling blood sugar checks, insulin injections and meals- while also running a country. It’s not easy, but Theresa May has always been very open about how she makes it work.
She:
Carries her insulin pen with her everywhere
Checks her blood sugar levels throughout the day- even during meetings
Is careful with her diet and daily routine
Stays calm and focused, even under intense pressure
In fact, she once mentioned having to inject insulin during Cabinet meetings- and just doing it quietly, without fuss. That’s confidence and professionalism in action.
Why She’s a Role Model for Teens with Type 1
You don’t often hear about world leaders talking openly about diabetes. That’s what makes Theresa May such an important figure. She’s shown that:
T1D doesn’t have to limit your ambitions
You can lead, inspire and make a difference- no matter your condition
You don’t have to hide your diabetes to be strong
She’s also helped normalise diabetes in public life, proving that it’s not a weakness- just part of who you are.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ever wondering whether Type 1 Diabetes will get in the way of your big dreams, just remember this: one of the most powerful people in the UK lived with T1D while leading the country.
Theresa May didn’t let diabetes define her- and neither should you.