PETER JOYCE

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

• June 2010 – Completed metric century and raise over $2,000 through Tour de Cure for Diabetes
• September 2010 Completed metric century - Pumpkin Ride

MEET PETER JOYCE

Tell us about your diagnosis with diabetes.

Both my parents suffered and died from Diabetes. So, when I hit the “maturity” milestone of 50, and had not shown signs of the disease, I figured I had it beat. But a year later, I found myself more tired than usual and frequently insatiably hungry. I had an annual physical and my blood sugar was elevated. The doctor wanted a retake, but I resisted. I was afraid of being “Diabetic.”

I waited about 6 months. Even changed my doctor in anticipation of the bad news. Finally, I got the results and it was not great. A1C almost 12. Blood sugar 180. Cholesterol 226 . Funny, the doctor just said to start on medication Metformin and . get a Glucose meter and come back in three months. “What?” I need help! Don’t leave me hanging!” I felt abandoned and on my own.

So, I started reading everything I could. I took it upon myself to see a dietician – she was rough!. I signed up for a course at my local hospital. I launched a strict diet. I stopped drinking alcohol.

Most important, I signed up for the Tour de Cure as a means of ramping up my exercise regime. I started training. It was winter, so I took spin class four days per week and ran 5 miles on alternate days (of course, I worked up to that level.) As the weather started getting warmer, I put in long rides on the weekend.

My “bike time” became “my time.” I reflected on my life as a diabetic. I reminded myself that I had much to do in my life. I wanted to be there for my loved ones. I pushed hard and proved to myself that I was still strong - I was not going to be some stationery middle age guy. I had fun being in nature with a cooling breeze in my face.

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

At first, I was in shock. “I thought I had this beat!” L Then, I became angry. “How could this happen to me? “Why me?” Eventually, I realized it was up to me. It was a wake up call. I had much to live for. So, I took action. I took to my bike!

How do you feel about diabetes now?

I am thankful for the wake up call. I value each day as an opportunity to make a difference in some small way - and that includes being a good steward of my body.

Tell us about your life at home.

I have been married to Barbara Feer for 20 years come July 2011. We have one 17 year old son, Henry. They are both amazing. They have filled my life with joy, as well as challenged me in many ways.

On my side of the family, I have three sisters, all married (although one recently widowed). One brother-in-law also has diabetes. I have 7 nieces and nephews and 8 grand nieces and nephews. I love my extended family very much and I take my obligation as a role model seriously. I try to emulate the importance of taking care of your health.

Why is exercise and competition a part of your life?

Over the past couple of years I have really grown to not only appreciate what exercise does for me but I have come to enjoy it. Exercise and competition have helped make me a healthier individual so that I am around for my family for a long time to come.

What drew you to Team Type 2?

I am committed to supporting others in their journey with Diabetes. I believe strongly in exercise and diet as a means of managing health. Team Type 2 is a great way for me to remain honest with myself and encourage others!

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

Probably the two things I devoted myself to the most has been my wonderful family. I am very proud of my wife and our son. Second would be my Doctorate – given that I was a first generation college student. Both reflect my core values.

How about an athletic achievement that you find especially significant?

Competing in the Tour de France. It is a grueling race. It recognizes individual achievement, but realizes the critical need of team work.

If there is one piece of advice you could give to someone who was newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes– what would it be?

Be thankful for the wake up call. You stand at a fork in the road. You can continue to ride along your current path or you can take a new direction and gain positive cadence in your life.

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

I am much more aware of my body. I try to listen to my body more. I frequently find myself asking, “Are you really hungry because your body needs nourishment or is something else going on.” I don’t ignore symptoms. I monitor carefully in order to avoid complications, which I hope will serve me well in the long run.

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

I strive to be more consistent with my eating and nutritional habits.

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

Complete 2 Centuries by the end of the year.

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

Complete a Tour de Cure at age 100!