Type 1 Diabetes Diagnosis at 43: Julia Buckley's Inspiring Journey and 2025 Insights

Adult diagnoses of type 1 diabetes, once known as juvenile diabetes, are becoming increasingly common.

We proudly share the story of Julia Buckley, a Florida-based flight attendant who received her type 1 diabetes diagnosis in her 40s. Julia opens up about her experience, the support she found, and how she transformed her journey into the popular blog Adventures of a Type 1 Traveler.

Julia Buckley’s Flight Attendant Career and Unexpected Diagnosis

Starting her career as a flight attendant in 1986, Julia traveled extensively across the U.S., Caribbean, Europe, and Latin America. Over decades, she encountered diverse cultures and personalities, enriching her life and career.

However, in 2007, at age 43, Julia began experiencing alarming symptoms including persistent yeast infections, extreme thirst, frequent urination, and rapid weight loss. Despite these classic diabetes signs, her age and health history initially led doctors to overlook diabetes as a possibility.

Following a series of tests—including a delayed glucose tolerance test—Julia was finally diagnosed with type 1 diabetes while on a trip to St. Thomas. Her primary care physician suspected type 1 due to her autoimmune background and referred her to an endocrinologist. After confirming the diagnosis, Julia started insulin therapy with multiple daily injections.

With the support of an insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor (CGM), Julia returned to flying within just over four months, defying initial expectations of a much longer recovery period.

Finding Community and Support in the Diabetes Online World

Julia credits the Diabetes Online Community (DOC) for helping her feel connected and empowered. Early resources like Kerri Sparling’s Six Until Me blog and advocacy from Nicole Johnson provided valuable guidance, especially since adult type 1 diagnoses were less commonly discussed at the time.

Despite occasional feelings of isolation due to her age and diagnosis, Julia found strength in sharing her story and connecting with peers, ultimately helping others navigate their own journeys.

Managing Type 1 Diabetes While Flying

Julia emphasizes the importance of control and trust in her workplace. She appreciates the safety training of her colleagues and actively educates fellow flight attendants about living with type 1 diabetes. Her union even connects newly diagnosed flight attendants with her for advice and support.

Blogging Adventures and Expanding the Conversation

In 2018, inspired by the Children with Diabetes Friends For Life conference, Julia launched her blog Adventures of a Type 1 Traveler. She chronicles her solo travels, sharing practical tips on managing diabetes safely while exploring the world. Julia advocates for carrying multiple backups and traveling to safe destinations.

Approaching her 55th birthday in 2019, Julia plans to broaden her blog’s focus to include insights on aging with type 1 diabetes, fostering an open dialogue about senior living with the condition.

She also created a private Facebook group, T1D Flight Attendants, to share tips and build a supportive community among airline professionals with diabetes.

Essential Lessons from Julia’s Journey with Type 1 Diabetes

• Diabetes management is highly individual; what works for one may not work for another.
• Pre-bolusing insulin before meals is a key strategy, though it can be challenging to remember consistently.
• Avoid comparing your progress to others; focus on your unique path.
• Blood glucose numbers are data points—not judgments—so stay calm and proactive.

Julia Buckley, diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2007 at age 43, continues to inspire through her blog and advocacy. Her story highlights resilience, community, and the power of sharing experiences for adults living with type 1 diabetes.

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