Marvel's latest superhero aims to smash diabetes stigma
Image from the cover of the comic.
Omnya, a high school teenager who lives with type 1 diabetes, can harness the power of sonic frequencies and turn them into a high-energy beam.
If that sounds like the storyline to Marvel's latest superhero tale, that's because it is. The publisher's latest custom comic strip, developed in collaboration with insulin pump manufacturer Insulet, introduces Dyasonic – Omnya's alter ego – and charts her struggles with arch-enemy D'Spayre.
Created by Marvel writer Paul Allor, who lives with diabetes himself, the aim is to help people with diabetes feel "seen, understood, and represented," and overcome the social stigma that can be associated with the condition.
A recent survey in the US, commissioned by Insulet, showed that, while 94% of people with type 1 diabetes want to see themselves represented in culture, more than half (51%) say they rarely do. Meanwhile, a third of respondents said they hide their diagnosis from others because they don’t want to have to explain the condition, are fearful of being judged, or feel ashamed of it.
Omnya struggles with her condition until she eventually starts using an insulin pump after meeting with her endocrinologist. Readers follow her journey of managing the autoimmune condition, overcoming self-doubt, discovering her power, and transforming into Dyasonic.
"Representation remains critical in shaping perceptions and reducing stigma around chronic conditions, especially for young adults and children managing something as complex and personal as diabetes," said Jeff Hitchcock, chief executive of the Children with Diabetes advocacy organisation.
"Seeing a hero who lives with diabetes, and thrives, can help break down stigma and open the door to conversations about management and support," he added. "This comic is an exciting step forward for the community."
Along with fighting diabetes stigma, the hope is that it will also encourage the use of diabetes technology that can improve the management of the condition and help to keep blood glucose levels under control, according to Insulet.
The company produces a tubeless, automated insulin delivery (AID) system – called Omnipod 5 – that can adjust insulin dosing based on continuous glucose monitor (CGM) readings.
"Managing diabetes, especially when it involves intensive insulin therapy, requires making countless decisions," said Ashley McEvoy, Insulet's CEO.
"From calculating insulin doses to monitoring blood glucose levels, the mental burden can be overwhelming," she added. "Collaborating with Marvel on this story empowers readers from the diabetes community to see themselves represented."
Dyasonic's debut adventure can be read here.
