I never imagined I’d have to defend my right to eat a protein bar on a plane, but entitled parents once forced me to. I’m Elizabeth, a marketing consultant who travels constantly for work. My life is busy but fulfilling—except for managing Type 1 diabetes, which requires careful blood sugar monitoring and regular snacks. I’ve lived with it since age 12, and though it doesn’t define me, it demands discipline, especially when I’m flying.

On a flight from Chicago to Seattle, I felt my blood sugar dropping right after takeoff. I reached for my protein bar when the woman beside me hissed, “Can you not? Our son has sensitivities.” Her nine-year-old, glued to an iPad, didn’t even notice me. Trying to stay polite, I put the bar away, deciding to wait for the snack cart. But as my hands began to shake, I knew I couldn’t wait much longer.

When the attendant finally arrived, I ordered a Coke and a snack box—only for the boy’s father to interrupt, “No food for this row, thanks. Our son gets upset.” My jaw dropped. They were serious. The attendant hesitated, but I pressed the call button again and said firmly, “I have Type 1 diabetes. If I don’t eat, I could pass out.”

The flight attendant immediately brought my snack, while nearby passengers looked appalled at the parents. I ate, steadying my sugar levels as the mother muttered about “empathy.” I smiled and replied, “Empathy goes both ways.”

The rest of the flight was silent. That day reminded me that advocating for your health isn’t rude—it’s necessary. No one’s comfort should ever outweigh another person’s wellbeing.