Being an athlete with type 1 or type 2 diabetes can be a challenge, but it is not impossible. Diabetes doesn’t have to stop you from living your dreams.

With the right training, nutrition, and medical care routine, you can continue to push your limits and achieve your athletic goals. Here are five inspiring athletes who have successfully managed their diabetes and are thriving in their respective sports.

1. Gary Hall Jr

Swimming phenom Gary Hall Jr. was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1999, shortly before the Sydney Olympics.

Despite the challenges posed by his condition, including the need to monitor his blood glucose levels frequently and adjust his insulin doses accordingly, Hall continued to compete at the highest level of his sport. He went on to win 10 Olympic medals, including five golds, over the course of his career. Hall credits his success as an athlete with diabetes to careful planning, persistence, and the support of his coaches, trainers, and medical team.

2. Jay Cutler

NFL quarterback Jay Cutler was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2008, and initially struggled to manage his condition while playing at the highest level of his sport.

But with the help of his medical team and a rigorous training regimen, Cutler was able to continue competing and even became a Pro Bowl selection in 2009. He now advocates for diabetes awareness and management, and founded the Jay Cutler Foundation to support children and families affected by the disease.

3. Kris Freeman

Cross-country skier Kris Freeman was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 19, just as he was embarking on his professional athletic career.

Initially told that diabetes would destroy his dreams of competing at an elite level, Freeman refused to accept that prognosis and instead worked tirelessly to optimize his medical care and training routine. He went on to become the first American with type 1 diabetes to compete in the Olympic Winter Games, and has won numerous championships and awards in his sport.

4. Wasim Akram

Former Pakistani cricket player Wasim Akram was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in the early 1990s, but that did not deter him from becoming one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time.

Akram is known for his lightning speed, skillful swing, and ability to adapt to different conditions on the field. Akram emphasizes the importance of a healthy diet and regular exercise in managing diabetes, and advocates for better diabetes care and awareness in his home country and beyond.

5. Sheri Benson

Professional triathlete Sheri Benson was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 16, and initially struggled to keep her glucose levels stable while training for races.

But with the help of her diabetes care team and her own tenacity, Benson has gone on to complete numerous Ironman triathlons and other endurance races, and has even become a certified coach and advocate for athletes with diabetes. Benson credits her success to a combination of careful planning, perseverance, and a positive attitude.

Conclusion

These five athletes are proof that diabetes doesn’t have to stop you from achieving your athletic dreams. With the right support, training, and medical care routine, you can thrive as an athlete with diabetes and inspire others to do the same.