Family Films That Tackle Diabetes

Description: This classic film centers around a group of women in a small Southern town, with one character, Shelby, dealing with Type 1 diabetes. The film captures the strength and fragility of family bonds, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of living with diabetes.

Fact: The film was inspired by a true story, and the character of Shelby was based on the playwright Robert Harling's sister.

Description: While not exclusively about diabetes, this film features a doctor who, after being diagnosed with throat cancer, learns empathy through his own health struggles, including a subplot involving a diabetic patient. It's a poignant look at how medical professionals can grow to understand their patients better.

Fact: William Hurt, who plays the lead, was nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance in this film.

Description: While the main focus is on leukemia, the film includes a subplot where the protagonist, Landon, learns about diabetes through his relationship with Jamie, whose father is a doctor dealing with diabetic patients.

Fact: The film is based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks, known for his romantic and emotional storytelling.

Description: While focusing on locked-in syndrome, the film includes a scene where the protagonist, Jean-Dominique, reflects on his past life, including his struggles with diabetes. It's a powerful narrative about resilience and the human spirit.

Fact: The film won the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival.

Description: This film about the 2008 financial crisis includes a character, Mark Baum, who has a brother with diabetes. The film uses this subplot to explore the personal impacts of financial decisions on health and well-being.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Description: This French film, with an English dub, features a subplot where the wealthy quadriplegic, Philippe, manages his diabetes. The film explores themes of friendship, care, and the unexpected joys of life.

Fact: The film was a massive international success, becoming the second highest-grossing French film of all time.

Description: This film about a polio survivor seeking intimacy includes a subplot where the protagonist, Mark, manages his diabetes. It's a touching exploration of human connection and personal challenges.

Fact: John Hawkes received critical acclaim for his performance, earning a Golden Globe nomination.

Description: Although primarily about cancer, the film includes a subplot where the protagonist, Hazel Grace, has a friend with diabetes. It provides a nuanced look at how chronic illness affects young people's lives and relationships.

Fact: The film is based on the best-selling novel by John Green, who was inspired by his own experiences with friends battling cancer.

Description: Paul Rudd stars as a writer who becomes a caregiver for a teenager with muscular dystrophy, who also has diabetes. The film explores themes of caregiving, independence, and the journey of self-discovery.

Fact: The film is based on the novel "The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving" by Jonathan Evison.

Description: This documentary follows the lives of several children with Type 1 diabetes, showcasing their daily challenges, triumphs, and the support they receive from their families. It's an insightful look into the life of young diabetics.

Fact: The film was produced by the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) to raise awareness and funds for diabetes research.