Villanova Sophomore Morgan Panzirer Publishes Inspiring T1D Memoir
Villanova University sophomore Morgan Panzirer has published her debut book, 'Actually, I Can: Growing Up with Type 1 Diabetes, A Story of Unexpected Empowerment'. The book, released in June 2020, aims to inspire children, families, and others to view T1D as an opportunity rather than an obstacle.
Panzirer was diagnosed with T1D at age 6 in 2007, and her sister Caroline followed suit as a teenager in 2017. The 19-year-old author shares her personal experience with T1D, including her experiences with hypothyroidism and her advocacy work with JDRF. She clarifies common misconceptions about the condition, such as the ability to eat sugar and travel, and encourages people with diabetes to embrace their condition and the technology that helps manage it.
Panzirer comes from a family with a strong history of diabetes advocacy. Her father, David, heads the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, which has contributed over $1 billion to T1D research and advocacy. Morgan's career goal is to become a pediatric endocrinologist, inspired by her own experiences and her desire to help other families with diabetes.
To celebrate the book's release, a giveaway for a free copy was held in July 2020, with Sandra Volling announced as the winner. 'Actually, I Can' is more than just a memoir; it's a testament to Panzirer's resilience and a beacon of hope for others living with T1D.
