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When David Panzirer’s six-year-old daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in 2007, his family was thrown into a world they didn’t understand. Within days, they were managing insulin injections, blood sugar checks, and constant uncertainty.
“We barely knew what to do… my hand was shaking giving her a shot,” David shared.
A few weeks later, his daughter chose to take initiative and give herself a shot. That moment marked a turning point, not just for her, but for their entire family.
From Parent to Advocate
Just months after the diagnosis, David became a trustee at The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust. Ten years later, his second daughter was also diagnosed.
Driven by fear and responsibility, he began learning everything he could about T1D. Over time, his focus shifted from not only finding a cure, but also to solving real gaps in care, especially for people with less access to resources.
He saw clear disparities: How where someone lives often determines the care they receive, the struggle to access specialists, and the difficulty so many have in navigating and obtaining insurance coverage.
Rethinking Support and Care
As a parent, David also had to learn when to step in and when to step back.
With new tools like continuous glucose monitors, he could track his daughters’ numbers in real time. But constant check-ins created tension. Setting boundaries helped balance safety with independence.
He also emphasizes that support starts with understanding:
- Learn how diabetes works
- Be prepared for emergencies
- Offer help without taking control
Living with T1D carries a constant mental load that is often invisible to others.
Why Blue Circle Health Exists
These experiences led to the creation of Blue Circle Health.
The goal is simple: expand access to high-quality T1D care, no matter where someone lives.
Through virtual support, Blue Circle Health helps people navigate daily management, access resources, and build confidence in their T1D management.
Key Takeaways for Families
Looking back, David shares a few lessons:
- Blood sugar fluctuations are part of T1D, give yourself and your child grace.
- Focus on keeping your child safe.
- Encourage independence early.
- Give both yourself and your child space to learn.
Moving Forward
David’s journey shows how one family’s experience can drive meaningful change.
Better tools exist today, but access remains a challenge. Expanding care and support continues to be a critical need in the T1D community.
You can learn more about Blue Circle Health at https://www.bluecirclehealth.org, and the Helmsley Charitable Trust at https://helmsleytrust.org/.
