It all started in November  2006 and I am amazed at how far we have come and how many lives we have impacted! We began as a group of people with diabetes in their lives who wanted to do something different to raise diabetes awareness. For some it was a challenge, for some it was a fantasy come true, for all it was a very public display of love. The tattoos here are as permanent in our lives as diabetes is. Please enjoy the art, love the stories and share your own if you can. 

I just had to send a note and let you know how COOL it is to see these pics on a site for diabetes...thanks for inspiring!!!!  Kim S.

 Keep watching for our new and improved design! Send us your tattoos and let us show off your art!

For Liam...the tattoo that started it all

November is Diabetes Awareness Month.  Within 4 years, there will be over 3 million Canadians living with this disease. One of those people is my son.  Liam was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the ripe old age of two.  Every day I strive to keep him as healthy as possible.  Every day I work to ensure that he is just like any other nine year old boy.

Liam isn’t just like any other nine year old boy however.  That is one of the reasons that I created the online community called Diabetes Advocacy (www.diabetesadvocacy.com ).  Each year Diabetes Advocacy has done its bit to increase awareness of diabetes and diabetes related issues in this country.  We have sent out calendars filled with people living with diabetes and have created booklets filled with their stories.  This year we have taken awareness to a new level. 

Across North America—from Newfoundland to California, people have come together through Diabetes Advocacy with one common goal.  They have decided to have a tattoo done to raise awareness of Type 1 Diabetes. Yesterday, I had mine done.

For Aimee

  Hi, My name is Aimee and I have had Type I Diabetes for 23 years now. I decided to get this tattoo because it had to mean something to me. Since I have been living with diabetes most of my life, I figured why not. Just wanted to share the picture...it is kind of a unique design. I am a big advocate for diabetes and finding a cure. I work as a nurse and I am always in contact with people who have this disease. Having it myself allows me to meet them at their level and understand better what they are going through. Thanks for letting me share...

For Alexx

I just got this tattoo. It makes me feel safer and I really like the symbol, so I think it makes a pretty neat tattoo (:

 

For Andrew

Hi, I wanted to share a picture of my Diabetes tattoo for your site.  I was diagnosed about 1.5 years ago putting an end to a my flight career.  I decided I didn't like med alert bracelets and I was going to look into a tattoo.  After looking at your site for inspiration I made up a design and here is the end product.  Thanks you!  Andrew, Utah

 

For Anthony

I was diagnosed a little over a year ago.  I got tired of wearing my bracelet and forgetting it when I left the house.  I thought a tattoo around my wrist would be the answer.

For arc....

For Bigman Bg

This is my new ink. I have been a type 1 diabetic since April 17, 2009. I have been in construction my whole life so I can't wear medical bracelets, so this is my answer to that. I have been on your web site several times to see others art work and get ideas before I got mine done. I love your site and can't wait to see all the other ideas people come up with.

For Brian's Dad

I am 17 years old, and is about to move out of my house, away from my Dad, who is 39 years old. He has had Diabetes for 37-38 years now, and the reason he got it is from insulin he was given as a kid to prevent diseases. Typical baby shots right? Wrong.  His body apparently reacted wrong to the shots, and made his pancreas fail, giving him Type 1 Diabetes.  A perfectly normal baby turned into a diabetic almost before he could walk. 

 

I designed this tattoo myself, and it in on my inner wrist if you cannot see, it is in honor of my dad and everyone with Diabetes in the world.   I hope they will find a cure so my dad doesn't have to endure (or anyone in this matter) multiple shots everyday.  Or taking a pill everyday.  I, Brian J. Kilgore, am a proud Diabetes Advocate from San Diego CA.

 

For Bob

 This is the tattoo I got a while back.  I don't like bracelets, necklaces etc. so for a long time never wore anything.  Guess I thought an EMT could figure it out seeing my pump & CGM.  My wife who is a tattoo affection ado was getting one and said come on, I'll buy you your first.  We made the appointment which she thought I wouldn't go to but did.  Thinking about what to have put on I figured how about a medic alert.  I found this sight and got some ideas along with what I had in mind and came up with this.  Cliff, one of the owners of Oshkosh Tattoo and Good Girl Piercing (and a real talented & great guy) touched up my design a bit and put it on.  I've had Type-1 since age four which was 1957 when having a physical to enter kindergarten and was diagnosed.  The last 54 years are history.  My father's father had diabetes and was the second person in Wisconsin to take insulin and my mother was a nurse so being diagnosed that early didn't allow me to acquire a lot of bad habits.  I was also fortunate to have a mom and dad who were knowledgeable, willing and able to help me early on.   Bob Marquart Oshkosh, Wisconsin  

For Bobbie

Bobbie is 29 years old and recently diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.

For Brad

Hello, I've been diabetic for about 23 years now. I am an electrician and can not wear jewellery of any kind while at work. I have broken and lost so many chains and medic alert pendants over the years its ridiculous. I wanted my daughter in law to create a leather type chain to wear around my neck for a medic alert pendent when she suggested I get a tattoo instead. Never have to worry about loosing or forgetting to put on anything again !! After a variety of different designs and a GREAT tattoo artist, HERE IT IS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

For Brian

 In 2004 my Dad Brian became very sick. We were unaware of what was wrong. I will never forget that day in March when he came home from the Doctors and told my Mom in the hallway that he has been diagnosed with diabetes... His doctor said he has a rare case, he is between type 1 and type 2 his pancreas still produces insulin, but other times he will need the injection. He can control it if he monitors it. He always told me that I wasn't allowed to get a tattoo until I was 18 because he didn't want me to get one and regret getting it because I didn't want it anymore. So in 2009 after I graduated high school me and my mom went together to get our first tattoo. I got the Diabetic butterfly just for him :) He had no idea what I was getting so it was a surprise to him when I came home to show him. He was very proud and didn't think one of his kids would have that much respect for him. I am now 19 and I will never regret this tattoo, it means the world to me, it will always remind me of how strong he is and what an influence he has on my life. I am blessed to call him my Dad....Jaime

For Brody

My son Brody was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in September 2007 at the ripe ol’ age of 7.  A total shock to us as it was found during a basketball physical.  It has totally turned our lives around as now we are experts in carb-counting, blood sugar checks, insulin, needles, etc.  He has been so brave and I am so proud of him for dealing with it like he has.  He is my inspiration which is why I decided to get a tattoo in honor of him and all the children living with this awful disease.  It is the “Children with Diabetes” ribbon inside his zodiac sign “Gemini”

For Cody...My son, Cody was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes on August 15, 1999.  He was 6 years old.  It is completely heartbreaking to see a child have to live with this disease.  Cody is now 17 and still struggles with diabetes on a daily basis.  I got a diabetes ribbon tattoo during the summer of 2004.  Cody told me last night that he wanted to have a diabetes tattoo on his wrist.  I found your website and wanted to share my story.  Thanks

For Colin

Colin was inspired by our page to get his own tattoo done! "I got this tattoo a couple of weeks ago.  It turned out great and I am pleased with it.  Hopefully it remains legible.  I was done by Tim Forbus at Incognito in Pasadena CA.  Make sure your ignorant boss knows that it is a medical alert and not for Fun or something..."

  I am a type 2 diabetic and wanted to share my tattoo. I am a strong advocate of the American Diabetes Association and want to promote their cause and awareness.  ~Craige

For Cindy

For Curt

My name is Curt and I wanted to share my medical alert tattoo with you. I have been a juvenile diabetic for 34 years since the age of 7. I changed the snake heads to spud wrenches because I am an ironwork superintendant and wanted my tattoo to be a little different. This web site gave me some inspiration for the design and to get it done.

For David

My wife has literally saved my life.  She alerted me to all my diabetic symptoms and begged me to get checked.  I relented after about 3 years(yes, I can be dense at times). After a 14 hour fast, my blood glucose level was 675, and when my A1C was checked, it was beyond 14%.  after about 4 years on oral meds, my pancreas finally died, and am now insulin dependant.  Instead of buying and losing one necklace or bracelet after another, I finally got a tattoo on my right forearm.  And I think he did an excellent job...much MUCH better than the design I gave him.

For Don...

I  was told I had Type 2 diabetes in Dec. of 2009. I had been tired and thirsty, but did not realize the symptoms. Then medication, diet and exercise to keep it in check. My kids kept after me to wear something, but I did not want a thing I could lose. So I elected to get a tattoo. I got a design, changed it a little and had it put on the underside of my left wrist. Now we all felt better, and I have a 'signal' in case I have a problem. 80 and taking care of myself.

For Erica...and her daughter

My daughter has been a type 2 diabetic for 10 years now, and I followed suit about 5 years ago.  I have tried several different bracelets but they don’t seem to like my skin to much. So I happen to start researching tattoos on line and found quiet a few I liked, so I took one I found and made it mine.  There are 2 parts to this 1) For medical purposes 2) For my daughter and awareness of any type of Diabetes.  Perfect example: My tattoo artist asked me how many types there were and what was the difference, and what are the signs. While getting the tattoo I had an audience of tattoo artists asking questions.  So far its doing its job!

For Elizabeth

I have been a diabetic for 19 years now and I thought since I'm allergic to metal around my neck and wrists I might as well get the medical symbol stating that I'm a diabetic. I was rushed to the Emergency Room back in Sept 2008 and if my sister wasn't there the paramedics and doctors would not have had any idea to test my blood sugar and to rush with me due to me going into a DKA.   Elizabeth

For Ellen

Ellen's mom recently sent her daughter off to university. Among the tools she sent to help her with her diabetes management was the address to this website. Much to Ellen's mother's dismay, she was inspired to have "diabetic" tattooed on her wrist..."So my mom informed you of my new tattoo ! lol ! It's amazing I feel really inspired having it. Believe it or not its just like a constant reminder to do the things I sometimes forget to do, its better having a tattoo remind you than a parent sometimes lol ! Its great to not wear a medical bracelet, my wrist feels so free !" Ellen W

For Eva

For Gail...another of the first group to get diabetes tattoos

Tonight went well...although I would NOT recommend to anyone they get their shoulder tattooed. IT HURT! Now some might say "duh", but honestly my lower back tattoo didn't hurt AT ALL- this one....good thing there were other people there watching so I kept being brave....OUCH. Now after I had my shower this evening it felt a lot better being rinsed off and cleaned- but remind me next time I mention doing this what this one felt like...all for Gail. The things we do for our kids (lol) Everything went really good- the television people didn't go- thank goodness. I think I was more nervous about them being there than anything, BUT the newspaper WAS- and they took about 50 pictures so who can tell what will end up in the paper.

For Jan

Jan got this tattoo so he would not have to wear a medical alert necklace. 

For Jacob....

Here is a little bit of our story! ;0)
 
Having to watch your child fight this illness day and night makes it easy to see the negative side of it, but there are also some positive outcomes to T1 diabetes in our lives. Today, I would like to bring solidarity and compassion to your attention. To this day, I don’t think I’ve ever witnessed as much support and understanding as I’ve seen in the T1 community, whether it is coming from the DOC, online forums, T1 Blogs or even Facebook groups.

At the age of 4 (about 8 months after his diagnosis), our son Jacob started using a Medtronic insulin pump. It was brand new with a cool jelly bean skin on it, but needless to say, he was still feeling all alone on his diabetes planet! I guess not having many T1 children in our hometown and surrounding area didn’t help. Even if he loved wearing his pump, I could tell he felt like an outcast, different from all the other kids. Sure enough, one day he came to me and said “Mom, why can’t I be like the other kids? Am I the only one in the entire world wearing a pump?”

That broke my heart! I tried to explain to him that all kids had their own differences. That Kellyann had a surgery to resize one of her ears, Noah wears an ear piece to help him hear, Edward can’t eat fish, nuts or even drink milk because of his allergies, other kids wear glasses or move around in wheel chairs. Then I told him that we all have our own differences – that’s what makes us all the same!

After that conversation, I turned to my husband Philippe and said “We have to do something, we need to find a solution so Jacob doesn’t feel so alone!” It was at that moment the idea of a tattoo emerged!

Diabetes does not define who we are but it is definitely a part of our lives. As long as Phil and I walk this earth we will do everything in our power to make sure our sweet little boy thrives and becomes the best human being he can be. This tattoo symbolizes the link between us three and it is also a symbol of love, life and hope. I am sure every T1 parent has said at one point “I would take his/her illness in a heartbeat if I could!” Of course it’s impossible, but what is possible is to show compassion, support and LOVE with all your heart!

I strongly believe that the day will come where there will be a cure for all people with diabetes. That day my sweet child will be free along with millions of other people. Even then, Phil and I will proudly wear our pumps for the rest of our days in solidarity with the greatest hero we know!

It is hard to describe how thrilled Jacob was when he saw our pumps for the first time. All I can tell you is that the feeling we got back from his emotions was bigger than life! We promised him he would never again be alone in the world to wear a pump. Promise made, promise kept!

Camille, Phil and Jacob

For James

For Jdlosh

For Jayde

This tattoo was done at Hosstyle Tattoos in Fredericton, NB by Hoss Locke.  My daughter Jayde Kasia was diagnosed in November of 1996.  Gina M, Boiestown, NB

For Jerry

For JeVonda

My name is JeVonda, and I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in January 2010, at age 30.  I have never liked jewellery on my wrist, but ordered a bracelet anyway.  Needless to say, I've only worn it 2 or 3 times in a year, so I decided to get the tattoo instead.

For Jocelyn

I got mine in case I ever am without my medical ID.  I feel much safer having it permanently on my body.  I am a Type 1.

For Jonathan

I'm 25. My names Jonathan.  I have 8 tattoos and this is my newest tatt!  I've been diabetic since April 21st 2010. I got this tattoo in Daytona on Friday night.

For Jordan

My name is Jordan F and this is my Diabetic tattoo. I have had this disease for 10 years (diagnosed in 2000 I was 7) and I have always wanted to have a tattoo that marked this day forever. When I go to work in the medical field it helps that I do not have on an actual id because life can get somewhat crazy. I love my tattoo because I know that anyone will know I am a Diabetic. When they develop a cure that is completely safe I want to have my diagnoses date and cured date with the word cured in the middle. I love my tattoo even if it marks a day that changed my life. 

For Julie

My name is Julie G and I have been a type 1 diabetic for over 25 years.  I just got this tattoo in honour of diabetes awareness month.  Although having the disease is a daily struggle and I have been afflicted with many of the complications of the disease, it has made me a strong, resilient, aware person.  Others I have spoken to with juvenile diabetes have often said we feel like members of a special club!

For Justin

For Karen's Mom...

In memory of my Mother who passed away after years of complications because of her diabetes!

For Kathy

I got this tattoo instead of getting a diabetic bracelet that can be easily broken.  My employer makes me cover it up while at work which defeats the reason I got it.  I work for a major health system in my area. Kathy L.

For Katia

I am Katia. I have been a diabetic since about fifth grade.  I was diagnosed in September 2003.  I am 17 now so its been about 7 1/2 years.  I've wanted this tattoo for about three years. I fianlly got it so I wanted to share it with you.  

For Kavan

Kavan was diagnosed in October 2009 with Type 1 diabetes.  He always disliked wearing jewellery so his doctor mentioned another patient who had a tattoo done instead.  Kavan found Diabetes Advocacy while looking for ideas and headed to Evolution Tattoo in Santa Rosa, CA to have the tattoo done.  Po, a Taiwanese artist did the work.  He did not know what diabetes was until Kavan explained that his body does not process sugar and Po realized that his good friend had the same condition!  Kavan has noticed that within the first day of having his tattoo people already recognize it and an EMT friend of his said it was definitely has good as a bracelet of necklace.

Kim's Medical Bracelet

  Kim didn't like any of the medical bracelets out there so she checked out our Tattoo page and decided that this was the way for her to wear her medical bracelet!

For Kody

My son Kody was diagnosed last year at the age of 6. It changed our lives forever. Most people don't realize the sacrifice children and adults make daily with this affliction. Kody is so brave he has already learned to test and give himself injections in less than a year. He held us, his parents, together when we didn't know what to do. My tattoo is of both of my boys, but Kody did the colors and final dragon design. He is an awesome artist and I wanted to do something that showed my kids will always be supported by me but showed the strength they have no matter what they face. Every time everyone asks, I give them the story so they know how serious type 1 diabetes is.  Jason, Kody's Dad

Jason's latest tattoo for Kody...

Ring is the diabetic logo ring. Nautical star is for good luck in our travels/future. Medical Alert Symbol, because it is with us forever now. Date on the left is Kody’s Birthday. Date on the right is Kody’s DX date. Both dates are dates my life changed forever! Type 1 son says it all.

For Kristen

Kristen's sister Stephanie had this tattoo done for her. I'm Steph, I got the tattoo this past summer for my little sister, Kristen, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes seven years ago when she was ten years old. It has the word "Nakupenda" which is Swahili for "I love you". Kristen taught me that word a few years back because I've always had a fascination with Africa and deeply was interested in learning Swahili. This is for my sister showing that I love her and support Type 1 diabetes awareness.

For Kristy I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes in 2008. In 2009 I decided to get my diabetes tat. Since I have several tattoos it was a no brainer to get my diabetes one. I put it on my inner left wrist.

For Libby, Alex and Tom

Based on Liam's tattoo, Darlene had this shoulder tattoo done for her family in November 2007. A work of art...a work of love. Thank you again for sharing with us!

Libby's Tattoo....

Libby's tattoo, her design, the stars are her parent's birthstones

For Lindsay

  Hi! My name is Lindsay and I am 24 years old; I was diagnosed 15 years ago with type 1 diabetes and have worn a medical alert bracelet every day since then...that is until this week when I got my medi-alert tattoo! I designed it myself on the computer and got it inked at a shop in Ithaca, NY. I also wanted to thank the people responsible for putting together this site; this is the place where I found the inspiration to get my own tattoo!

For Lisa

 The stories on this website inspired me to finally get my tattoo.  This past August was the 19 year anniversary for me having had Type 1 Diabetes.  I was 8 when I was diagnosed and I am 27 now. I am proud of how well I have done living with a chronic disease like this and want to bring awareness to the fact that 1 in 2 Americans will have some form of Diabetes by 2020.   Exercise and eat in moderation.   Control your glucose levels as best as you can and educate those that refuse to acknowledge the dangers of uncontrolled diabetes.  As you all know, it is not an easy disease to live with.  I am proud of the group of people who have shared their stories.  You are all true inspirations. XOXO Lisa

For Mark

For Martin

My name is Martin M, I have 34 years and at 16 I have type 1 diabetes, insulin-dependent am I live in Buenos Aires Argentina, and this is my tattoo, the site is very interesting.

For Mike

Hi there I absolutely love the website, I got a lot of inspiration for my tattoo from there. I designed the general layout with the finishing product made my Matt Mooneyham of Hot Rot Tattoo in Chandler, AZ. This was my second tattoo and I wanted it to be a diabetic id, along with a more artistic and personal feeling. Feel free to post it! Sincerely, Mike C. 19, AZ

For Mustangbaxter

For Nate...

For Nathan

My name is Nathan Denton.  I am 17 Years old.  Diagnosed at age of 5 with Type 1 Juvenile Diabetes.  Got the tattoo in 2010, a few weeks after school started.  My father helped me design the tattoo.  Since then, have helped other diabetic friends design their own tattoos.

For Nick

My name is Nick Masters. I have been living with type 1 diabetes since I was first diagnosed in 1994. I just turned 18 and wanted to get my tattoo help promote awareness for diabetes. I originally wanted to get this because I didn't like wearing the bracelet or necklace. Most of my family members have type 1 diabetes, and I did this to help them through their struggle as well.

For Nicole

My name is Nicole and I am a 21yo nursing student. My thought was, you’d never loose a tattoo, unlike a bracelet or necklace, there is no breeding ground for bacteria, and in case of an “upset patient”, you wouldn’t get it ripped off, or get caught on machinery. I was diagnoses with diabetes in 1999. I just wanted to show my tat to others, and inform them that medical identification tats are becoming more common. Don't just look for a bracelet anymore!

For Nick

My name is Nick M. I have been living with type 1 diabetes since I was first diagnosed in 1994. I just turned 18 and wanted to get my tattoo help promote awareness for diabetes. I originally wanted to get this because I didn't like wearing the bracelet or necklace. Most of my family members have type 1 diabetes, and I did this to help them through their struggle as well.

For Olivia

  I just turned 18 and have had type 1 diabetes almost 10 years now. I am headed off to college soon and instead of having to wear a medical id bracelet all the time I wanted to get a tattoo. Not only will this be helpful in an emergency situation it also is a constant reminder to be checking blood sugars often and keeping things under control. I also think the Caduceus is a very beautiful symbol.

For Patricia. Love your website, and wanted to share mine that I just got today! Thank you

For Peyton

My son Peyton was just diagnosed as pre-diabetic on January 5 of 2010, three weeks before his 4th birthday. The specialist says his pancreas is failing and there is nothing we can do to stop it. I feel so helpless for my son so I support diabetes research with my newest tattoo of the ribbon butterfly

For Reenie

I was diagnosed Type 2 Diabetic in October 2003.  I controlled it with diet and exercise until January 2011.  I decided to get a tattoo because I didn't like the medical alert jewelry and wanted something permanent.  I got the tattoo 11/3/2011.

For Rick

For Rob

Rob had this tattoo done in July 2010

For Robin

I became diabetic at the age of 9. Have had it 20 years now. One of the rare times I ever wore my chain, it saved my life. Cops were called in because I was reported drunk. When they arrived on scene I was unconscious and luckily they found my necklace and called the paramedics. Even since then, I still hate to wear it, I actually don't even know where it is. The EMT recommended a tattoo, and after several years I have finally gotten one. The lettering is bold and ugly, but I wanted it to be clearly legible and visible. Its more than just an art piece.  Robin M

For Savannah...Stillborn child of Mindy King and Ryan Spenser due to Mindy's diabetes

For Sarah

I got this tattoo after a few of my friends had gotten advocacy tattoos, and I considered it for 2 years before passing out at work. It made me realize the importance of always having a medical ID.

For Stephanie's Mother

I lost my mom due to complications of diabetes on December of 2008. I hope they continue to search for a cure.....Stephanie V

For Stuart

This is my tattoo I got in July of 08.  I am 19 and I was diagnosed when I was 16 months old.  I have pretty tight control and am still very active, I am a college football player and I don't let diabetes interfere with the sport I love.  I got the tattoo so that in the case of emergency paramedics could see that I'm a diabetic and then take the appropriate action.  Since I've had it I realize that not a lot of people know what diabetes is so the tattoo helps me to educate those around me about the disease.

Submitted by Tiffany

For Zakk and Isabella...another of the original diabetes awareness tattoos.

For Tracy

Other Tattoos:

Please share your tattoo and story with us.

Designs for your viewing and use:

I have recently been diagnosed as  a Type 1 diabetic. I have given some thought to getting some ink for several reasons. As I have a friend that is a paramedic he told me that when they are confronted with a unconscious person they typically follow the same protocol and give then a cocktail designed to counter act any narcotics on board and glucose/sugar. I have also read some post by paramedics that actually look for tats and other signs, My biggest concern however is if I end up in the ER if I have something identifying me as I diabetic it could only help. I am in construction and find my self in many situations that jewelry is prohibited. As many of you may already know the walls in the tattoo shops aren't exactly filled with choices for our specific needs so I have drawn a few ideas I would like to share and possible get some input. Also if anyone was looking for ideas you are free to use any of these. Thank you, Richard White 

Darren Brass...Tattoos and Diabetes

To protect identities, only first names have been used. All of those involved in this project have provided Diabetes Advocacy with written consent to use their stories. No names or stories can be borrowed or used without the express written consent of Diabetes Advocacy and those parties involved. Diabetes Advocacy does NOT sell names, mailing lists or other information regarding those who share their information with us