ABBI CLOTH holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance from York University and is completing her Bachelor of Education in Intermediate/Senior Education with teachables in dance and social science. She began dancing at three, training recreationally and competitively. At five, she was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D), introducing challenges to her dance training. Refusing to let T1D limit her ambitions, Abbi adapted her regimen to prevent hypoglycemic seizures during rehearsals and performances.
Alongside her dance career, Abbi is a fourth-degree black belt in mixed martial arts, showcasing her physical strength and determination.
In 2020, Abbi received a scholarship from the Diabetes Hope Foundation (DHF), sponsored by the Aubrey and Marla Dan Foundation. This connected her to a larger diabetes community, where she became a dedicated advocate. She has spoken at several DHF webinars, sharing her experiences as a dancer with T1D. Now one of four program facilitators, Abbi continues to support and inspire others navigating life with diabetes.
This is Abbi’s first publication; a milestone she hopes will resonate with readers. Through her story, she aims to bring a smile to your face while raising awareness of the often-overlooked challenges of being a dancer with T1D. By sharing her journey, Abbi hopes to educate non-diabetics about the resilience and strength required to balance a physically demanding career with the complexities of managing a chronic condition.