Diabetes poses an intricate and complicated dilemma during rigorous physical exercise, such as running. A diabetic’s unstable blood sugar levels and potential foot problems pose a dangerous risk while running. Still, the Mayo Clinic explains that regular exercise is necessary for controlling diabetes. For this reason, athletes and runners with diabetes are often recognized and admired for their struggle and achievements.
Ayden Byle
Ayden Byle is the “first insulin-dependent man to run 6521.5 kilometers across North America,” according to DLife.com. Diagnosed with juvenile diabetes at the age of 18, Byle struggled with maintaining his strict diet. After his initial struggle with the diagnosis, Byle chose to challenge himself to increase awareness about diabetes. To do this, he planned to run across Canada, hoping to inspire other diabetics and raise money for diabetes research. Although he requires five insulin shots every day and must consistently monitor his blood sugar levels, Byle completed more than 1,200 miles of his challenge in just over one year. Byle also founded The Ayden Byle Diabetes Research Foundation, a nonprofit charity to raise funds for diabetes research.
Missy Foy
As Missy Foy was preparing to transition into elite racing, she received the devastating diagnosis of Type I diabetes. After several days of anguish and multiple doctors’ visits, Foy finally learned how to balance her insulin levels with the intensity of her training. In 2000, Foy became the first athlete with diabetes to qualify for the Olympic marathon trials. From 2005 to 2007, Missy Foy broke the course record for the Umstead 50 Mile Ultramarathon, secured the No. 1 world ranking in a 50-mile trail race, and finished second in the USA Track and Field 50 Mile National Championship. In addition to her running career, Foy also advocates for diabetes awareness by speaking at seminars, conferences and children’s camps.
David Weingard
Three months after receiving a diagnosis of diabetes, David Weingard completed the New York City Marathon, making him one of the most famous runners with the condition. Weingard’s diagnosis motivated him to not only continue running, but also include cycling and swimming. Since his diagnosis, Weingard has competed in the 2000 Berlin Marathon, the 2000 Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon and 2003 Ironman USA. The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation notes Weingard is one of the few people with juvenile diabetes to complete the Ironman Triathalon.
