At the age of 20, designer and KYT (Keeping You Together) founder Bridget Scanlan was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. As her pancreas stopped producing insulin, she had to learn to manage blood glucose tests and insulin injections – as well as all of the equipment that comes with it. Soon, KYT released three designer bags meant to empower diabetics and streamline their daily treatment in a stylish way.
“From talking to diabetics around the world, I got universal insights into the daily diabetes struggle,” Scanlan says. “It sparked a thought: could smarter design empower people to feel better about dealing with daily treatment? I wanted to redesign diabetes, so we could all redefine it.” Eva Carry Case
Jumping into action, her background in fashion design and entrepreneurship led the way. “Every zip, every angle, every equipment detail has been influenced by the insights gathered from the hundreds of incredible diabetics who have opened up and shared their diabetes stories (and gripes) with me,” she shared.
The contemporary bag designs feature smart layouts, using quality materials such as gold-rated Italian leather and solid brass hardware, and are ethically crafted. Each bag holds and organizes the carrier’s diabetic supplies, such as a testing kit, pump consumables, and insulin pens.
The SideKYT is a crossbody bag that streamlines users’ essential diabetes supplies by splitting into two sections: life essentials up front and diabetes equipment in the back. A testing station allows blood glucose levels to be evaluated straight from the bag.
If you’re looking for something larger, the SideKYT+ style might be for you. It’s a larger crossbody bag designed for pump users or those who want to carry more equipment or spares.
Lastly is the StarterKYT. The compact case allows users to discreetly carry supplies, measuring in at the size of a sunglasses case. It locks together with magnets and unfolds flat to create a testing station, then can be easily folded up again.
Currently, all three bags are available for pre-order, which includes a 15% price cut.
A donation from every KYT bag sold helps diabetes charities get crucial supplies to those in need. To learn more or pre-order, visit kytbags.com.
Kelly Beall is Director of Branded Content at Design Milk. The Pittsburgh-based writer and designer has had a deep love of art and design for as long as she can remember, from Fashion Plates to MoMA and far beyond. When not searching out the visual arts, she's likely sharing her favorite finds with others. Kelly can also be found tracking down new music, teaching herself to play the ukulele, or on the couch with her three pets – Bebe, Rainey, and Remy. Find her @designcrush on social.
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