‘Animal Crossing’ Island Spotlights Diabetic Patients For Inclusivity, Awareness
Insulet Corporation, makers of the Omnipod tubeless insulin delivery devices, has partnered with Animal Crossing: New Horizons to launch an island to increase awareness and representation for the diabetes community.
On the ‘Omnipod Bay’ island, gamers can take part in activities such as swimming in the ‘A1 Sea’, performing in a concert, figuring out their way through a maze, or visiting advocacy booths.
A recent survey by the firm showed that 94% of people with type one diabetes said it was important for the illness to be accurately represented in culture, though 51% of them had rarely or never seen diabetes represented in the last year.
In addition to the island, new outfits launched in-game will allow players with diabetes to don their pumps fashionably, with several new outfits to choose from and the option to carry an accessory bag for diabetes supplies.
“Our hope is that the Animal Crossing integration will help people with diabetes feel more included, connected, and seen in a fun and engaging way,” said Lei Mercado, Chief Marketing Officer at Insulet.
“Representation of people with diabetes is important to us, so we looked for an opportunity to make diabetes part of everyday culture,” she said.
