ERIN BALL



  • Kenosha, WI
  • Age: 17
  • Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 13

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS


  • 1st Place - 2010 ABR WI State Time Trial Champion - Junior / Girls
  • 1st Place - 2010 USAC WI Track – Junior Women 15-16
  • 3rd Place - 2010 Mid America Time Trial Series - Junior / Girls
  • 6th Place - 2010 International Cycling Classic – Kenosha Food, Folks & Spokes

MEET ERIN BALL


When were you diagnosed with diabetes?

I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes on September 2nd, 2009


How did you feel about diabetes when you were first diagnosed?

Overwhelmed, I didn’t understand all the things that were happening to me. I was scared, and frustrated.


Tell us how you feel about diabetes now.

I understand it much more now. There are times that it is still difficult but overall things are good. I am fortunate to have the love and support of my parents and the amazing staff at Childrens Hospital that have helped me learn to control diabetes. Each day I spend the effort to make good diabetes decisions so it doesn’t get in the way of me working to achieve my dreams.


Why is exercise and competition a part of your life?

It’s who I am. I’ve always had a competitive spirit and enjoyed participating in sports. Since being diagnosed with diabetes, staying active has actually helped me control it, and allows me to continue to do the things that I enjoy.


What drew you to Team Type 1?

A very motivating article about Team Type 1, in Diabetes Forecast Magazine, shortly after I was diagnosed, in 2009. I met some of the TT1 members and watched them participate at the 2010 Glencoe Grand Prix. There are some exceptional athletes on the team and I really think what they are doing for people with diabetes is important.


Tell us about a personal achievement that was highly significant to you.

Overcoming the initial frustration with the diagnosis. I’ve learned to appreciate the positive things in my life, the love and support of my family and friends, and the opportunities that I’ve been blessed with.


How about an athletic achievement that you find especially significant?

Making the Softball Varsity team in school shortly after I was diagnosed. I had a good season and went on to earn the Coach’s award. This year I also started running Cross Country. My endurance increased through the season and managed to take 1st place in my category for the Monster Dash.


How do you feel in school about having diabetes?

I am in high school currently. I’m very social and have taken the opportunity to explain diabetes to my friends when I have to give myself Insulin.


In what way have you found that your diabetes has helped you grow as an individual?

Having diabetes has helped me understand more about the human body and the amazing way the body’s complex systems work together. It has opened my eyes to the ongoing research and developments in diabetes management and opportunities that exist in that medical field. I’m now contemplating a possible career involving endocrinology. Having diabetes, with the numbers and computations involved in management, has also made me better in math!


Are there any areas of your diabetes management that you are currently targeting to improve?

I am working to improve morning high glucose numbers and occasional highs #s during/after sports activity.


Tell us about an athletic goal you have for the short term – say less than one year from now.

To take advantage of the opportunity that has been presented to me. I want to participate in several races this year - develop physically, mentally and gain experience to further enhance my success. Most important I want to have fun doing this.


How about an athletic goal that you have for the long term?

Maintain a healthy lifestyle using exercise to stay a physically fit person for the rest if my life.