Broadway Actor Kyle Banks & His Diabetes Misdiagnosis 

His journey reflects resilience, advocacy, and the power of finding a community.

Early Days: A Diagnosis That Shaped the Future

Kyles’ story with type 1 diabetes (T1D) didn’t begin in childhood, as it does for many, but in his mid-30s. At 34 years old, Kyle’s life was full of activity and passion, yet he found himself battling unexplained symptoms that disrupted everything.

“I was feeling drained all the time,” he recalled. “At first, I blamed it on my busy schedule and demanding rehearsals. But then the symptoms got worse.”

His symptoms were relentless: 

• unquenchable thirst that had him drinking gallons of water a day
• extreme fatigue that no amount of rest could cure
• rapid, unexplained weight loss 

At one point, Kyle dropped 15 pounds in just a few weeks. “I knew something wasn’t right when I couldn’t make it through the day without constantly needing water,” Kyle shared. “It was exhausting just trying to keep up with my own body. ”Other common symptoms of T1D include:

• Changes in your vision
• Sour fruit odor on your breath
• Frequent need to urinate
• Thrush or yeast infections
• Intense food cravings
• Irritability and mood changes

The emotional burden of not knowing what was happening added to the physical toll. Kyle’s warning signs reached a breaking point when he began experiencing blurred vision and lightheadedness during rehearsals.

Finally, he visited a doctor at the urging of friends and family. Initially, the diagnosis he received didn’t align with what he was experiencing.

The Misdiagnosis: A Bumpy Start

When Kyle first sought medical advice, he was misdiagnosed with steroid-induced type 2 diabetes (T2D). 

“I was on taking high doses of prednisone to treat vocal issues,” says Kyle. “The doctors initially thought I had steroid-induced type 2 diabetes.”

Eventually, the diagnosis shifted to simply T2D. His age was the primary factor that led healthcare providers to this conclusion—but considering his very lean body type and no sign of any real type 2 risk factors, the diagnosis was confusing.

“They didn’t look any deeper,” Kyle said. “It felt like they assumed my lifestyle was the problem rather than trying to understand my symptoms.”

Kyle was prescribed metformin and instructed to make lifestyle changes. He followed the advice diligently but found no relief. His blood sugar levels remained dangerously high, and his symptoms persisted.

“It was disheartening,” he said. “I was doing everything they told me to do, but nothing was improving. It felt like I was failing.”

After several frustrating months, Kyle sought a second opinion. This time, the doctor performed more comprehensive tests, including autoantibody screening and a C-peptide test, which confirmed that Kyle had type 1 diabetes. The misdiagnosis had delayed his access to the proper treatment he needed.

“I felt a mix of emotions,” Kyle recalled. “Relief that I finally had answers, but also anger and frustration about the time lost.”

The Stage Beckons: Dreams Don’t Stop for Diabetes

For Kyle, one of his proudest achievements was joining the cast of The Lion King on Broadway, a dream come true for any performer. The rigorous demands of a Broadway production are unlike anything else, with hours of rehearsals, high-energy performances, and the pressure of delivering night after night. Performing in such a physically and emotionally demanding role while managing type 1 required immense focus and adaptability.

Despite the challenges of his diagnosis, Kyle’s love for performing never wavered. From community theater productions to starring in The Lion King on Broadway, his talent and dedication shone through. However, managing T1D in such a demanding environment wasn’t easy.

“Rehearsals are grueling,” Kyle explained. “The adrenaline from performing can send blood sugar levels soaring or crashing. I had to learn how to monitor and adjust constantly.”

Kyle began using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and an insulin pump to help manage his diabetes during performances. These tools were essential in helping him navigate the physical and mental demands of his role, ensuring he could give his all on stage without compromising his health. These tools provided real-time data and greater control, allowing him to focus on his craft.

“The technology was a game-changer,” said Kyle. “It wasn’t perfect, but it gave me a sense of security I never had before.”

Finding Strength Through Advocacy

As Kyle built his career, he realized the power his story had to inspire others. He began sharing his experiences with type 1 diabetes to connect with others in the diabetes community.

“I wanted people to know they weren’t alone,” he said. “Diabetes is challenging, but it doesn’t have to stop you from living your dreams.”

Kyle has since spoken at numerous events and mentored young people navigating their own diabetes journeys. His advocacy work has become as integral to his life as his time on stage.

A Commitment to Community: The Birth of a Foundation

Kyle’s experience led him to establish his nonprofit organization, Kyler Cares Foundation, dedicated to supporting those living with type 1 diabetes. His foundation focuses on providing access to life-saving technology, such as CGMs and insulin pumps, and fostering a sense of community.

“When I was first diagnosed, I felt so isolated,” Kyle shared. “I want to make sure no one else feels that way.”

The Kyler Cares Foundation hosts educational workshops, provides scholarships for diabetes technology, and organizes community events that unite people. One of its key initiatives is raising awareness about the importance of a proper diagnosis to prevent delays in care.

“We also have a diabetes management support program for students attending NYC public schools,” Kyle said. “And the program is expanding to the Detroit Public School system!”

The Power of Storytelling

Kyle’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of sharing one’s story. Through his advocacy and nonprofit work, he has reached thousands of people, offering hope and encouragement.

“Every time someone tells me my story makes them feel less alone; it reinforces why I do this work,” he said.

Whether on stage or at a community event, Kyle’s message is clear: type 1 diabetes may be part of his story, but it doesn’t define him.

Looking Ahead

Today, Kyle continues to perform, advocate, and lead his nonprofit with unwavering determination. His journey—from grappling with a life-changing diagnosis to becoming a Broadway performer and advocate—illustrates the strength and resilience of the type 1 diabetes community.

“Diabetes is part of my story, but it’s not the whole story,” said Kyle. “It’s a chapter, not the title.”

For anyone facing a similar journey, Kyle’s advice is simple: never let a diagnosis define your dreams. With the right tools, support, and mindset, anything is possible.

“Keep pushing, keep dreaming,” he says. “Diabetes may change your life, but it doesn’t have to limit it.”

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Getting Screened for Type 1 Diabetes

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms like excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, or constant fatigue, getting screened for type 1 diabetes can provide clarity and direction. 

Early detection is key to proper management and care. There are several ways to get screened for type 1 diabetes:

• TrialNet: TrialNet offers free screening for relatives of people with type 1 diabetes. Their program identifies autoantibodies, which can signal the condition's early stages.
• ASK Program: The Autoimmunity Screening for Kids (ASK) initiative provides free screening for children in certain areas, making it easier for families to detect type 1 diabetes early.
• Primary Care Physician: To confirm a diagnosis, your doctor can help you request specific tests, such as autoantibody screenings and C-peptide tests.

Being proactive with screening can help prevent delays in treatment and improve outcomes. Whether for yourself or a loved one, don’t wait for symptoms to escalate—early testing can make a significant difference.