Happy Valley Star James Norton Champions Childhood Diabetes Awareness
James Norton, famous for his role in Happy Valley, is using his star power to spotlight diabetes in kids. The actor, who lives with type 1 diabetes himself, recently lent his voice to a special reading of How to Manage a Mammoth on CBeebies.
The Mammoth Metaphor: Making Diabetes Manageable for Kids
The children’s book, penned by Dr Rose Stewart and illustrated by Richard Dwyer, tells the story of 8-year-old Jake. He imagines his diabetes as a huge mammoth named Mel. With help from his mum and friends, Jake finds ways to shrink Mel to a size he can handle.
The story’s clear message? Diabetes isn’t unbeatable—it’s something kids can learn to live with and control.
James Norton Opens Up About His Own Diabetes Journey
James described his own condition with a charming comparison. “I think of my diabetes as a shaggy dog named Bruce,” he said. “When Bruce was a puppy, he was excited and hard to manage. Now he’s calmer—just like how I’ve learned to manage my diabetes over time.”
Expert Advice for Families Dealing With Diabetes
The BBC Bitesize Parents’ Toolkit also offers vital tips for families facing diabetes. Experts from Diabetes UK and Dr Rose Stewart provide guidance on accepting the diagnosis and managing the condition day-to-day.
Don’t miss James Norton’s CBeebies Bedtime Story featuring How to Manage a Mammoth, airing at 6:50 PM on Friday, June 14.
