Nathan was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when he was 9 years old. No stranger to the disease growing up, he watched his father and grandfather manage their diabetes throughout his childhood. Having his family’s experience, including his mom who became a diabetes educator really helped him through the new challenges that he was facing.
“I remember being scared but felt really lucky that I had a ton of support from my family, friends and even my friends’ parents.”
Even though Nathan had a fantastic support system, he still faced challenges, especially trying to keep his blood sugar consistent while participating in physical activity. He remembers in Phys Ed classes and during sports, along with being an Elementary Physical Education Teacher and coach that he constantly has to be aware of his blood sugar levels and how to treat them. Being able to use an insulin pump and connect his continuous glucose monitor to his phone has made this a lot easier to manage and allowed his family to also ensure that he was safely staying in range, while also being able to participate with his friends, peers and stay actively involved while teaching and coaching his students.
Even through the challenges that Nathan has faced, he refuses to let his diabetes define him. His biggest accomplishment is his family, his loving wife Shanis and his two boys Wes and Rhodes.
Nathan is modelling in the Pump Couture Fashion Show to raise awareness about living with diabetes and the importance of diabetes management devices. He knows that wearable technology makes diabetes visible but wants people to know that since using an insulin pump, his life has improved dramatically.
Although Nathan did not attend D-Camps, he was consistently surrounded by people that understood his diagnoses and knows firsthand the importance of a support system.
Please show your support by helping Nathan reach his fundraising goal.
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