I’m not quite sure how I feel about this…probably shocked while giggling. Mattel has just launched its latest Barbie doll and she has type 1 diabetes — and very pink medical devices! Her showing up on planet Earth was the result of a collaboration between the toy company and Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF), much spearheading by Breakthrough CEO Aaron Kowalski.

Senior VP and head of dolls, Krista Berger says, “”Introducing a Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes marks an important step in our commitment to inclusivity and representation. Barbie helps shape children’s early perceptions of the world, and by reflecting medical conditions like [Type 1 diabetes], we ensure more kids can see themselves in the stories they imagine and the dolls they love.”

Sure, although she doesn’t have any bruising from cannula insertions and how’s she going to manage a day of up and down blood sugars with that constant smile. If it gives little girls comfort that’s fantastic, albeit the Barbie prototype — all legs and no waist — has always been concerning. However, diabetes-wise, the fact that a doll can’t be emotive makes me wonder if perennial optimism feels dismissive of the real frustration, disappointment, and anger when it comes.

Two other dolls of T1D advocates are also being launched. They represent Peloton fitness instructor Robin Arzon and model Lila Moss. Arzon says, “It’s an absolute honor to receive a Barbie doll as a part of the brand’s efforts to grow awareness and representation surrounding type 1 diabetes, so that we can help show kids that all types of challenges give us all the more reason to push forward and achieve our dreams.” Yes there’s a place for pushing forward and achieving your dreams, but Barbie depicts only that, frozen in happy, happy.

Maybe Moss has hit on what I’m really feeling, “To be able to now see Barbie dolls with [Type 1 diabetes], and to receive a Barbie doll that visibly looks like me even wearing her patches, is both surreal and special.” Amen.

The Barbie doll with Type 1 diabetes is available on Mattel Shop and stores across the country.