Brooke Shields’ daughter Rowan has been very open about her Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis, sharing photos with her Dexcom patch visible, in an effort to normalize the condition. Rowan was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of 14 after experiencing rapid weight loss, frequent urination, deteriorating eyesight, and a severe toe infection. These were all clear signs of undiagnosed Type 1 diabetes. Despite the challenges, Rowan has become highly competent in managing her condition and has become completely autonomous in administering insulin to herself. This forced her to mature quickly and take on a 24/7 job of managing her diabetes.
Brooke Shields has shared that initially, she felt overwhelmed and helpless upon learning about Rowan’s diagnosis. The uncertainty of the future and not knowing what to do left her feeling lost. However, watching Rowan take control of her health and become self-sufficient in managing her diabetes gave Brooke a sense of relief. The Dexcom patch, which sends readings to a smartphone app, has also provided comfort to Brooke and other close family members by allowing them to monitor Rowan’s blood sugar levels without constantly having to ask her for updates.
Rowan, now a 21-year-old senior at Wake Forest University, has expressed that while managing Type 1 Diabetes is a never-ending responsibility, she has adjusted her life around it and has learned to cope with the challenges. She admits that sometimes she wishes she had been diagnosed at a younger age to avoid knowing a life without the condition. Despite the limitations and constant vigilance required, she has embraced her reality and has grown tremendously from the experience.
Brooke Shields is not only a mother to Rowan but also to her 18-year-old daughter Grier, who recently started her freshman year at Wake Forest University. Grier paid a heartwarming tribute to her mom by wearing the same dress Brooke wore when she married Andre Agassi in 1997. This gesture symbolizes the deep bond and appreciation Grier has for her mom, who has been a pillar of strength and support for her daughters. The family, including husband Chris Henchy, a successful television writer and producer, has come together to navigate through Rowan’s diagnosis and to provide unwavering support in managing her condition.
Rowan’s journey with Type 1 Diabetes has been one of resilience, growth, and adaptation. Through her openness and determination, she has shed light on the reality of living with a chronic condition and has inspired others to embrace their challenges with grace and strength. Brooke Shields’ unwavering support and love for her daughters have been a source of comfort and strength, showing the importance of familial bonds in overcoming life’s obstacles.