In Loving Memory of Latara Brown

Elevate with Anaya Roché is dedicated to the life and legacy of my beloved niece, Latara Brown.

A warrior in every sense of the word, Latara faced the relentless challenges of Type 1 diabetes, formerly known as juvenile diabetes, and gastroparesis with remarkable strength, grace, and resilience. But her health challenges were only one part of who she was. She was deeply loved, courageous, full of spirit, and determined to keep moving forward despite the battles she faced.

Before Latara passed, she had begun to feel called to share more openly about her struggles, her pain, and her journey living with diabetes and gastroparesis. She wanted others to understand what life with these conditions could really look like and hoped that sharing her experience might help someone else. Sadly, she was taken from us far too soon to fully share that story herself.

Her journey became part of the inspiration behind my own desire to raise awareness. As someone navigating prediabetes myself, I understand that my journey is different from Latara’s, but her life has made me even more determined to learn, ask questions, research, take my health seriously, and share what I discover along the way.

Through Elevate with Anaya Roché, I want to create space for honest conversations about diabetes, prediabetes, gastroparesis, prevention, wellness, and the realities people and families may face while living with chronic illness.

My hope is that by sharing research, lived experiences, practical information, and encouragement, another woman may feel better informed about her health, more confident asking questions, and more empowered to advocate for herself.

Though Latara’s time with us was far too short, her courage and her story continue to inspire me.

Latara, your light will never fade. Your fight was not in vain. I cannot tell your story exactly as you would have told it, but I can honour your memory by continuing the conversation you wanted to begin and by using this platform to encourage others to care for their health, strengthen their faith, and know that they do not have to walk through difficult seasons alone.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
— 2 Timothy 4:7 (NIV)

Understanding Diabetes & Gastroparesis

Type 1 Diabetes

Formerly Called Juvenile Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body produces little or no insulin.

It was historically called juvenile diabetes because it is often diagnosed in children, teenagers, and young adults. However, Type 1 diabetes can develop at any age, which is why “Type 1 diabetes” is now the preferred term.

People living with Type 1 diabetes require daily insulin and ongoing blood glucose monitoring to manage the condition.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes develops when the body does not use insulin effectively and, over time, may not produce enough insulin to keep blood glucose within a healthy range. It is the most common form of diabetes and can develop at any age. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medication, and in some cases insulin.

Prediabetes

occurs when blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. It is an important warning sign because it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy when the body is unable to produce enough insulin to meet increased needs. It often goes away after pregnancy, but it can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Other Types of Diabetes

Less common forms of diabetes can result from genetic conditions, certain diseases, medications, or other medical circumstances. Because diabetes can have different causes, proper diagnosis and medical care are important.

Child with juvenile diabetes checks glucose levels using a CGM and smartphone, showing modern diabetes management tools for k

Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis, also called delayed gastric emptying, is a condition in which food moves from the stomach to the small intestine more slowly than it should, even though there is no physical blockage.

Symptoms can include feeling full quickly or for a long time after eating, nausea, vomiting, bloating, abdominal discomfort, poor appetite, and difficulty getting enough nutrition.

Diabetes is the most common known underlying cause of gastroparesis because prolonged high blood glucose can damage the nerves involved in stomach function. However, gastroparesis can also have other causes, and in some cases no underlying cause is found.

Raising Awareness: Advocating for Change

Awareness begins with understanding. Diabetes and gastroparesis can affect daily life in ways that are not always visible to others, and greater understanding can help reduce stigma, encourage earlier conversations with healthcare providers, and strengthen support for those living with these conditions.

Education also plays an important role in helping people recognize symptoms, understand the differences between conditions, and seek appropriate medical care when needed.

Through Elevate with Anaya Roché, Latara’s story helps bring attention to the realities of living with chronic illness while encouraging compassion, informed conversations, and stronger support for individuals and families navigating similar journeys.

Why Awareness Matters

Awareness can lead to earlier conversations, better understanding, and stronger support.

For people living with diabetes, recognizing symptoms, understanding risk factors, and receiving appropriate medical care can help reduce the risk of serious complications over time.

Gastroparesis can also be difficult to recognize because its symptoms may overlap with other digestive conditions. Greater awareness can help people ask informed questions, seek medical guidance, and feel less alone while navigating diagnosis and treatment.

Awareness also matters because chronic illness affects more than the individual. Families, caregivers, and communities often play an important role in providing encouragement, practical support, and understanding.

By learning more, sharing accurate information, and listening to the experiences of those affected, we can help create a more informed and compassionate community.

How You Can Help

Awareness becomes meaningful when it leads to understanding, compassion, and action. There are simple ways each of us can help support people living with diabetes, gastroparesis, and other chronic health conditions.

Educate Yourself & Others
Learn about the signs, symptoms, challenges, and realities of these conditions, and share accurate information with others.

Listen & Show Compassion
Many health struggles are invisible. A listening ear, patience, encouragement, or a simple act of kindness can make someone feel seen and supported.

Support Reputable Organizations
Consider supporting organizations, research initiatives, or awareness campaigns that provide education, resources, advocacy, or assistance to people and families affected by diabetes and digestive disorders.

Encourage Better Conversations About Health
Talk openly about prevention, symptoms, medical care, and the importance of seeking professional guidance when something does not feel right.

Be There for Those Affected
Support can be as simple as checking in, helping with everyday tasks, accompanying someone to an appointment, or reminding them that they do not have to navigate their journey alone.

Together, we can honour Latara’s legacy by learning, caring, speaking up, and helping others feel supported through their own health journeys.