BOSTON and DENVER (Oct. 7, 2025) — Grownup T1Ds, the first nonprofit devoted to midlife and older adults living with type 1 diabetes (T1D), announced today that it will launch new peer-support chapters in Boston and Denver this November in honor of National Diabetes Awareness Month 2025, reflecting a growing national demand for community among adults aging with T1D.

The expansion reflects a growing national demand for community among adults aging with T1D. Founded in California, Grownup T1Ds provides uplifting, social spaces that help reduce isolation, burnout, and loneliness — issues often overlooked in diabetes care.

“Midlife adults with type 1 diabetes have gone unseen for too long,” said Kelly Dawes, founder and executive director of Grownup T1Ds. “We are the first generation to live this long with T1D, and for many diagnosed later in life, there has never been a space to connect with peers. Our meetups are not just support groups — they are social, empowering, and life-changing.”

Adults living with T1D in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond face unique challenges that differ from those of younger people. Many organizations and online communities cater to children and young adults, leaving a gap for older adults seeking support from peers who understand life with diabetes over decades.

What began in California has now expanded to the East and Mountain regions, offering new opportunities for adults to share experiences, learn, and find connection.

Grownup T1Ds is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to creating in-person and virtual spaces for adults living with type 1 diabetes. The nonprofit collaborates with healthcare professionals and community advocates, promotes education and peer-led programs, and emphasizes accessibility for people diagnosed at any stage of life.

For more information, visit https://grownupt1ds.org.

For many adults, attending a Grownup T1Ds meetup becomes a turning point.

Michelle, a new member, shared her fears about an upcoming eye procedure. At a meetup, she met others who had undergone similar surgeries and offered encouragement. She left feeling reassured and less alone.

Craig, who lives with both hearing loss and T1D, said the connection he felt at his first event was immediate and powerful. “It reminded me that I’m not the only one managing this every day,” he said.

David, who has lived with T1D for over 50 years, mentioned he’s gone through life alone managing this condition until now.

These stories echo what many members describe — connection that builds confidence and community.

The Boston and Denver launches will serve as pilot gatherings for what the organization hopes will become thriving, permanent chapters.

“With the launch of our Boston and Denver gatherings, we’re responding to the voices of adults who have been searching for a community like this,” Dawes said. “As interest grows, Grownup T1Ds is seeking volunteer leaders to help bring chapters to new cities and states across the country.”

More adults than ever are living with T1D into midlife and older age. Many are being diagnosed later in life, and managing both aging and diabetes brings new medical and emotional challenges. Yet peer support and community have been shown to improve emotional well-being and diabetes outcomes.

By creating warm, social spaces that bring people together, Grownup T1Ds addresses a real and rising need in the diabetes community.

Adults living with type 1 diabetes can get involved by attending a local meetup, or volunteering to help launch new chapters. Supporters can share their stories or donate to help expand programs nationwide.

To learn more or get involved, visit https://grownupt1ds.org or email mailto:[email protected].

About Grownup T1Ds

Grownup T1Ds is the first and only nonprofit focused on midlife and older adults living with type 1 diabetes. This 501(c)(3) organization reduces isolation and burnout through in-person meetups, education, and community support. Its programs help adults aging with diabetes connect, thrive, and live fully.

Visit https://grownupt1ds.org for updates on events and new chapters nationwide.

Media contact:
Kelly Dawes
Founder and Executive Director, Grownup T1Ds
[email protected]