Eliana Frank

I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) at the age of 12 at Stanford University. In 1975, the only tools available for T1D were urine tests and pork and beef insulin (Regular and NPH). I remember being told that an A1C level of 15% was considered high, yet there was little I could do with the limited options at my disposal. I was also given the sobering news that I might not live past 30 and would likely never have children.

In 1992, I took a significant step in my diabetes management by starting my first insulin pump (Medtronic). As a software engineer, I was amazed at how effectively the pump controlled my blood sugar levels. However, the infusion set was a bent needle, and I had to shower with the pump attached since there was no option to disconnect it.

In 1998, after a transformative meeting with a life coach, I realized I wanted to pursue the job of my dreams in the field of diabetes. Within three months, I was offered a sales position with Lifescan, the company that created the first blood glucose testing meter and strips.

Two years later, I transitioned to a sales role at Medtronic MiniMed. After the birth of my daughter at age 40, I decided to focus more on family. During this time, Stanford, one of my sales accounts, reached out to see if I would assist with their clinical research study involving the Medtronic Pump. I eagerly joined the research team and had the privilege of working alongside Drs. Darrell Wilson and Bruce Buckingham.

Now, over 20 years later, I proudly serve as the Division Clinical Research Manager for Stanford Pediatric Endocrinology. I am currently using the iLet insulin pump from Beta Bionics, which I had the opportunity to help research during its development.

My journey with T1D has been one of resilience and transformation. From facing daunting challenges in my youth to finding my passion in the diabetes field, I have dedicated my career to improving the lives of others living with T1D. My experiences have shaped my commitment to advancing diabetes care and research, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of patients and their families.