CREATIVE DIRECTION • GRAPHIC DESIGN • MOTION GRAPHICS
On December 7, 2005, I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D), an autoimmune disease that occurs when a person’s pancreas stops producing insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood-sugar levels. T1D develops when the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas are mistakenly destroyed by the body’s immune system. While the exact cause of this autoimmune response is still being researched, scientists believe both genetic and environmental factors may play a role.
For my dynamic typography class at SCAD, when tasked with creating a PSA on a cause that is personally significant to me, I knew I had to address the rising cost of insulin. This issue is not only a financial burden for many individuals with T1D but also a critical barrier to proper care and treatment.
For the design of the PSA, I wanted to use typography and minimal graphics to keep the focus on the powerful message. The simplicity of the visuals allows the audience to truly absorb the gravity of the situation without distraction. I aimed to create a clean, impactful design that emphasizes the urgency of this issue, while ensuring the message resonates deeply with viewers.
Some T1D and insulin facts:
(1) Only about 5 percent of people with diabetes have type 1.
(2) T1D is a 24/7 disease that requires constant management.
(3) While insulin therapy keeps people with T1D alive and can help keep blood glucose levels within the recommended range, it is not a cure, nor does it prevent the possibility of T1D’s serious effects.
(4) Insulin was first used to treat a diabetic patient in 1922. The discoverers sold the patent for $1 so it could be accessible for all; however, since the 90s, the cost of insulin has increased by over 1200%.
(5) The cost of production for a vial of most types of insulin is between $3.69 and $6.16.
(6) One of every four patients with T1D has had to ration their insulin due to cost. Many have died.
The insulin crisis in America is a serious problem. Please consider donating and/or advocating.
jdrf.org | #Insulin4All | T1international.com
