Global Heroes 2012

I will again be applying to be part of the Medtronic Global Heroes and run the Twin Cities Marathon on October to inspire others with medical conditions like diabetes to stay active and not let the condition limit the possibilities for adventure.


Here is an excerpt from the email I received explaining the Global Heroes Program:

A cooperative effort between Twin Cities in Motion and the Medtronic Foundation, the Global Heroes program recognizes runners from around the world who have a medical device to treat conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, chronic pain and spinal and neurological disorders.

Up to 25 runners will be selected to receive two entries into the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon or the Medtronic TC 10 Mile, held on Oct. 7, 2012 in Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota.

When I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes 12 years ago at the age of 25, I was a runner and had completed a few marathons and when I got the news of what I had, I thought that was all over.  When I got past the initial shock, I learned that diabetes can be managed and I did everything that I could to continue a normal life.  Before too long I was running again, but I struggled with blood sugar highs and lows that went from frustrating to scary.  A couple years later, I started using an insulin pump to manage my diabetes and things got much better.  This pager sized device allows me to make frequent and precise adjustments to my insulin treatment and maintain much more stable blood sugar levels.  Now I am able to live, play, eat, and run and run and run and still keep close control of my health and diabetes.  I am thankful for this device and the many friends and medical professionals that have helped me manage my diabetes.  I would love to be part of this program and share my story with others who run with diabetes.
I have applied before and was chosen as an alternate last year.  I am hoping that this year I will be selected as one of the 25.  I'll be sending my application in this week.


They do take nominations as well, so if you would like to nominate me as one of the 2012 Global Heroes, you can do that here.

Thanks!