About
We are dedicated to strengthening connections within the type 1 diabetes community through inclusive events, social networking, and direct support.
What We Do
You’re Just My Type started as a photo project to showcase people from all over the world with type 1 diabetes living healthy and fulfilling lives. As the community has grown, we’ve branched out to include in-person events with the goal of providing support, education, and resources.
Our organization hosts year-round mental health events for people living with type 1 in Southern California. These events provide a safe and welcoming space for individuals to connect with others and to learn strategies for managing the mental and emotional challenges that can come with this disease.
We are currently branching out to new cities and states with the goal of expanding our mental health events nationwide. We want all individuals with type 1 diabetes to benefit from the support and community that we provide. Our mission is to create a world where all individuals with type 1 diabetes feel empowered, supported, and connected.
About the Founder
Laura Pavlakovich is a California native who has been living with type 1 diabetes since childhood. Laura studied photojournalism with the goal of using her photography to make a positive impact; however, it wasn't until she met the mother of a young boy with type 1 diabetes that she realized her craft’s full potential.
The boy's mother shared that her son felt isolated and alone, and that seeing facts and statistics weren’t enough to make him feel like he was part of a larger community. Laura recognized that she could give a face to this invisible disease by featuring other type 1’s on Instagram.
Since founding YJMT, she has created a vibrant and supportive community for those living with type 1 diabetes. Through featuring their stories, she has shown that everyone with this condition shares a common experience.
Her commitment to breaking down stigmas and creating safe spaces has become her life's purpose, and she will go to great lengths to make sure that no one with type 1 diabetes ever feels alone.
Fast Facts
Age of Diagnosis
4 years old
Residence
Los Angeles, CA; I feel most at home when I’m near the ocean
Favorite Low Snack
Fruit strips
Pump or Pens?
MDI currently, although I’ve been on and off the pump
CGM?
Freestyle Libre 3
Diabetes Quirk
I HATE the smell of insulin
Education
Photojournalism - with the goal to use my photography to make a positive impact on the world
Favorite Book
Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed or The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls
Other Interests
Reading, the beach, traveling, sunsets, and sunrises