I began running at age fifteen, raced my first marathon at age seventeen and about ten years ago started racing triathlons (swim/bike/run) as well. I always appreciated the positive mental and physical benefits of exercise.
Seven years ago, I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and set about to rebuild my life. I thought that I would simply incorporate diabetes into my existing life. Little did I know!
I learned that putting that plan into action wasn’t that simple. I had to find people to learn from (doctors, nurses, nutritionists, exercise physiologists, and other people with diabetes) and make an effort to stay in contact with them on a regular basis. As committed as I was to the plan, I found it very challenging to pull it all off while balancing my diabetes, job, family, and life in general.
I also wanted to find a way to help the diabetic community and the search for a cure. In 2003 and 2005, I raced Ironman triathlons (the big ones with a 2.4M swim, 112M bike and 26.2M run) and raised charity for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s (JDRF) New York City Chapter. I received tremendous media exposure and along the way learned from the hundreds of people with diabetes who contacted me from around the world how my efforts inspired and brought them positive energy in their lives.
During the 2003 Ironman, it rained all day and I coped with unexpected issues like finding a way to dry my fingers prior to a blood glucose (sugar) test, meters that stopped working and soggy food that fell apart...making carb counting a bit challenging. Finishing the race gave me such a sense of accomplishment that I knew that I could deal with my diabetes no matter what it threw my way.
I can share with other readers is whatever your goal, be it a fitness goal, improving diet, weight loss, or simply getting to the gym—it is still possible with diabetes. My suggestion is to schedule time at the beginning of the day and "just do it". Don't think about it. Just get up and walk out the door.
The first few times your blood glucose changes may be unpredictable, so write them down and "tweak" your routine so it can be easier the next time.
I am very fortunate to have a phenomenal team of people working with me who share a similar passion to empower people with diabetes in their lives. It’s my way to share what I have learned in my journey and help you on yours.
David W, 43
New York, NY
134961