Nicole Johnson - Miss America 1999
Type 1 Diabetes Success Story
Nicole Johnson won the Miss America title in 1999, becoming the first Miss America with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) and the first contestant to publicize the use of an insulin pump. She's been a diabetes advocate since her diagnosis during college in 1993. Nicole is a nationally recognized advocate for diabetes research and education and a long-time supporter of the UMass Diabetes Center of Excellence (DCOE). A champion of healthy living, she’s published several books related to diabetes, the most recent of which is titled What to Do When Your Partner Has Diabetes: A Survival Guide.
“Each day, I’m grateful for the many medical advances in diabetes care which I benefit from,” said Johnson. “It’s all too easy to slip into depression, discontent, or to have a defeated attitude. I fight it daily. Yet I believe in optimism, happiness, and the power of relationships. Science supports the notion that a positive attitude leads to a better quality of life, and that results in better outcomes.”
Nicole appreciates the quality diabetes care she has received from Dr. David Harlan as well as the Type 1 diabetes research taking place at UMass Chan Medical School.
"Dr. Harlan's philosophy of care is collaborative, empowering, caring, and solution-oriented," she said. "He always incorporated the latest technology and management solutions into his practice. I feel like a part of the team at UMass and feel heard as a person with Type 1 Diabetes. I trust Dr. Harlan's guidance and am grateful for his support of my goals and dreams."
Using the platform that winning the Miss America crown has afforded her, Nicole continues to raise awareness about diabetes by sharing her personal story.
"I would encourage parents to see and celebrate the courage of their children. Fill them with the words: You are strong, you are capable, you are courageous, you are smart. These words take hold and become truths that children can hold onto in the most challenging times of life with diabetes. Never underestimate your value in helping shape your child's courage! My parents still do this for me, and I am forever grateful.”