In February of 2006, at age 35, I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes (aka Juvenile Diabetes).  At the time of diagnosis, I had a blood glucose level of 560 (90 -100 is normal) and my A1C was at 18 (5.6 is normal). 

While this news came as a horrible shock, it helped explain the many symptoms I had experienced the prior year including extreme fatigue, frequent urination, lingering sports injuries, energy crashes and excessive thirst.  After beginning insulin therapy, and soon thereafter, the Animas 2020 insulin pump, I noticed immediate improvements in how I felt and lowered my blood sugar levels dramatically.

In August 2007, I completed my third Ironman race.  This made me realize I could be just as active with diabetes and there was no reason why others couldn’t too. By participating in these endurance events, I hope to set an example for all diabetics, that they too, can lead an active lifestyle and achieve their fitness goals. Above all, I hope to create a broader awareness by educating and inspiring others to choose a healthy and active lifestyle.

On November 22, 2009, I will be competing in Ironman Arizona with Team Triabetes, a 501 c3  non-profit, public benefit organization with the mission of “Changing the lives of people with diabetes through fitness, adventure travel, educational outreach, and web-based community support.”

 Triabetes has documented the life changing influence that this one project has had on twelve Type-1 Ironman athletes, as well as the kids they have mentored, their "triabuddies."  The trailers for this documentary can be viewed at http://www.vimeo.com/2722286 .