Sanofi and Stagecoach Performing Arts have partnered to highlight the significant impact autoimmune type 1 diabetes (aT1D) has on patients and raise awareness of the condition.
Under the collaboration, four adolescents aged 13 to 14 years with aT1D were selected through a UK-wide audition process to form a girl band named ‘1Type’, which has released an original song aimed at empowering young people living with the condition.
‘Rise Up’ features UK spoken word poet and hip-hop artist Duke Al Durham, who also has aT1D, and is inspired by the artists’ lived experiences. It is available to stream on Spotify and Sanofi has agreed to donate an amount matching the profits from the song to charities that support aT1D patients.
“Sharing our stories through music has been more than we could have hoped for,” the band said. “We hope this song starts a conversation about type 1 diabetes and fosters a sense of community for others living with it.”
Affecting approximately 400,000 people in the UK, including around 32,000 people aged 19 years and younger, aT1D is a complex and lifelong condition that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
aT1D can occur at any age and, while it is known not to be caused by diet or lifestyle, the causes of the condition are currently not fully understood.
The partnership follows a recent survey from Sanofi that revealed the challenges associated with aT1D. Of 200 UK adults with aT1D, 98% said the condition affects their physical health and 91% reported that it has taken a toll on their mental health.
Additionally, a third of respondents said they have had to explain aT1D to close family members, and 26% believe the condition is more misunderstood than type 2 diabetes.
Ahmed Moussa, general manager, general medicines UK and Ireland, Sanofi, said: “These incredible kids are true rockstars, both on stage and, more importantly, in how they manage type 1 diabetes every single day. We are proud to stand alongside them, amplifying their voices.”
“This project beautifully demonstrates how music can be a powerful tool for raising awareness and building empathy,” added Lisa Stead, chief operating officer, Stagecoach Performing Arts. “It’s been a fantastic opportunity for these talented young musicians to connect deeply over their shared experiences with aT1D and create something they will cherish forever.”