Empowering Children Through Storytelling: Jamala's Journey from Tupac's Cousin to Author
- Angela Freeman
- Feb 10
- 3 min read
Children’s books often do more than entertain—they teach, inspire, and open doors to important conversations. Jamala, the first cousin of the legendary Tupac Shakur, has taken this mission to heart. After a personal family experience, she transformed her story into a powerful children’s book titled Mommy I Think I Have Diabetes. This book is not just a story; it is a tool for families to understand health, speak up, and support each other early in life.
Writer: Angela Freeman | February 10, 2026
Jamala’s Personal Story Sparks a Movement
Jamala’s journey into children’s literature began with a deeply personal moment. On February 14, 2006, her daughter diagnosed herself with diabetes. This early recognition was a turning point for Jamala. She realized how crucial it is for children and families to have access to knowledge about health conditions from a young age.
She shared, “Our children, our grandchildren, our brothers and sisters, all deserve knowledge and understanding – and we all have the basic right to access healthcare early in our lives.” This belief drives her work and the message behind her book.
Why Children’s Books Matter for Health Education
Children’s books can simplify complex topics and make them accessible. When it comes to health, early education can:
Help children recognize symptoms and communicate concerns
Reduce fear and stigma around medical conditions
Encourage families to seek timely medical advice
Build empathy and understanding among peers
Jamala’s book uses a gentle narrative to explain diabetes in a way children can relate to. It encourages kids to talk openly with their parents and caregivers about how they feel.
How Mommy I Think I Have Diabetes Teaches Families to Speak Up
The book follows a young child who notices changes in their body and bravely shares their worries with their mother. This story highlights the importance of listening to children and trusting their observations.
Key lessons from the book include:
Paying attention to early signs of illness
Encouraging honest conversations within families
Understanding that children can be active participants in their health
Knowing when to seek professional help
By framing these lessons in a story, Jamala makes the topic approachable and less intimidating for young readers.
The Impact of Jamala’s Work Beyond the Book
Jamala’s role as an author extends her influence beyond her family. She is helping communities by:
Raising awareness about childhood diabetes
Promoting health literacy among young readers
Inspiring other authors to tackle important health topics
Supporting families in advocating for early healthcare access
Her connection to Tupac Shakur adds a unique dimension to her story, showing how legacies can evolve in unexpected ways—from music to meaningful children’s literature.
Practical Tips for Parents and Educators Using Jamala’s Book
Parents and educators can use Mommy I Think I Have Diabetes as a starting point for health discussions. Here are some practical ways to engage children:
Read the book together and pause to ask questions about how the child feels
Share stories of other health conditions to normalize talking about health
Encourage children to describe any changes they notice in their bodies
Create a safe space where children feel comfortable asking questions
Connect with healthcare providers for age-appropriate information and support
These steps help children build confidence in managing their health and foster open communication.
Looking Ahead: The Power of Storytelling in Children’s Health Education
Jamala’s journey shows how storytelling can be a powerful tool for change. By sharing her family’s experience, she empowers children and families to take control of their health early on. Books like hers can inspire a new generation to be informed, proactive, and compassionate.
Her message is clear: knowledge and understanding start at home, and every child deserves the chance to speak up about their health.
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