I was diagnosed with Type-1 (Juvenile) Diabetes 22 years ago, at age three. This is the time when most kids are exploring the limitless possibilities in the world; I also discovered the restrictions that would follow me for the rest of my life. Diabetes is one of the only diseases that affects every part of the body. It is something I deal with every minute of every day. It makes life difficult at times, but I will not let it stop me.
I decided to start training for my first half-marathon to prove to myself that I am just as healthy and capable as anyone else. For me, the toughest challenge has been balancing so much physical activity with my food intake and medication. Even the slightest difference in nutrition and physical activity affects blood sugar levels. As I started training, I was struggling with meeting my own goals and in turn, became very unhappy with myself. But these days I feel like I have reached the peak of my health. My blood sugar levels have never been better - almost the same as a non-diabetic. This is quite an achievement for me, as diabetes is a constant balancing act and my future health is something I think about often. Running gives me something to strive for that is achievable with hard work and determination, two things I have plenty of!
I use Virgin Health Miles through my employer. The HealthMiles program helps me track my steps and keep up with how far I run. I really enjoy having the pedometer. It has provided me with a way to log my running and to get a clear picture of what I need to do to reach my goal of crossing the finish line at the Country Music Half Marathon. I've never felt better about myself and I haven't even gotten to the race yet!
I will not let diabetes slow me down. Crossing the finish line will prove that and hopefully inspire others to wear their GoZone pedometer every day.
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Awesome story and I wish you the very best to keep this pace the rest of your life. Maintain your weight and eat right. My brother got Type 1 when he was 18 and I see how he has always kept track of his exercise and his food intake. He will be 66 next month. Keep up the good work. I lost 25 lbs from Weight Watchers 4 yrs ago and have kept it off. The Virigin Health miles keeps me encouraged (nice payouts) and weighing in every few weeks to keep my life membership in WW is a must as is keepign a food diary of what I eat. Go Nashville and country music.
Posted by: M A Bogart | 06 April 2012 at 01:31 PM
Nick u r a winner. I have T2 and also a hiatial hernia so I have a constant battle because I can't eat a lot at one time, but it has to be enough to keep me going. About a year ago I started yoga, at the end of an hour I am ready to pass out. I am still trying to figure out what to eat to keep going.
Posted by: Cheryl Choo-Kang | 16 March 2012 at 10:23 AM
Life has give you a huge challenge, but that isn't stopping you. I love your take control approach! You will go great places and do great things with your attitude!!! CONGRATULATiONS!!!
Posted by: Betsy | 03 July 2011 at 06:47 AM
Nick you are amazing. My Daughter has T1 also and I am well aware of the day by day dealings at times. You have truly had and continue to have a journey....a healthy one! Keep it up!!
Posted by: jean dean | 02 July 2011 at 08:11 PM
Nick, you are a winner! Keep up the fight!
Posted by: Thelma | 08 June 2011 at 09:51 AM