ANTONIO VITA

Oxford, GA
Age: 47
Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes at age 41

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

2010 – Race Across America (RAAM)

MEET Mark Thul

Tell us about your diagnosis with diabetes.

I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes in October of 2002. I experienced blurred vision, frequent trips to the bathroom, losing weight without even trying.

How did you and your family feel about diabetes when you were first diagnosed?

We were very surprised. I had no history of diabetes in my family so it was not something I ever considered being affected by.

How do you feel about diabetes now?

I have found that this disease is manageable and I am still able to live a normal and healthy life as if I didn’t have the disease. Learning about diabetes through self education and outside education was very helpful to me. This education gave me a real understanding of diabetes and provided the framework I need to manage my diabetes. I have come to understand the importance of diet and exercise. Proper diet and regular exercise not only help me manage diabetes but have made me a healthier and happier person as well.

Tell us about your life at home.

I have three beautiful girls - they keep me motivated to keep myself healthy. When the day comes, I want to be there to walk them down the aisle when they get married.

Why is exercise and competition a part of your life?

Exercise is a key point in managing my diabetes. Competition feeds my desire to do better, to work toward new achievements. In the process I hope to inspire other people with diabetes – to make them aware that they are capable of accomplishing goals that they set in life.

What drew you to Team Type 2?

I was introduced to Saul Zuckman in the fall of 2009 at a diabetes seminar sponsored by my diabetes educators. I spoke with Saul and was inspired by his story. Hopefully, I can be an inspiration to someone else in life as he has been with me.

Tell us about an achievement that was highly significant to you.

I participated in Race Across America in June 2010. I could have never imagined that I was capable of doing something of that magnitude. The commitment of the training leading up to the race was intense as well as challenging and I’m proud that I was able to achieve this goal.

If there is one piece of advice you could give to someone who was newly diagnosed with diabetes– what would it be?

You are not alone. I would also say that this disease is manageable and to seek proper medical assistance from doctors and diabetes educators.

Tell us about your favorite TT2 event to date.

The conference in San Antonio, Texas. I enjoyed meeting and speaking to different people and sharing my experiences about being part of TT2 and doing Race Across America.

Are there any ways that you have found that diabetes has been a benefit in your life?

Prior to being diagnosed, I was overweight. When I was diagnosed, it was an eye-opener. The diagnosis provided the motivation and sense of urgency to quickly and decisively make the changes I needed to make in my life. As strange as it sounds, my diabetes has made me a healthier person. I have an improved outlook on life as well.

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

I am currently working closely with my diabetes educators to reduce some lows at night.

What is an athletic goal you have for the short term – say less than one year from now?

This year my goal is to improve on my swimming and running skills.

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

One of my longer term athletic goals is to do a triathlon.