June 16th, 2023 was the date my life changed when I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) at 17 years old. As I spent a week in the hospital I had a choice to make; to let this disease defeat and define me, or use it as a blessing and impact those around me. 

When I was diagnosed, I knew that God was going to use this for good and bring people to His kingdom through me, as well as inspire the next generation of children with T1D, to chase their dreams and goals. 

As I sat there in the ICU, I wondered if I would ever play basketball again, and at a high level? I am living proof that even with Type 1 diabetes I can play at the next level.  This next summer I will live out my dream of playing collegiate basketball at Michigan State University…. Go Spartans!! 

Although I am a perfectionist, I will never fully perfect this disease. T1D in itself is imperfect, and no matter how closely it's managed, it refuses to “stick to a script.” The mastery of Diabetes is learning that the ups and downs are normal, and they don't define success. 

Through this journey, I’ve had to learn a lot about myself and this disease.  First Type 1 diabetes has no boundaries.  It can attack anyone, no matter your age, background, or athletic make-up.  Diabetes affects you not only physically, but emotionally as well.  Secondly, it takes a lot of patience, practice, and perseverance to manage this disease, just like the game of basketball. Thirdly, we live in an exciting time of constant change and movement with research, treatments, and technology as they continue to evolve to help children with Type 1 diabetes to live happy and fulfilling lives. 

One very important thing that consistently has gotten me through this transition as a diabetic is my support system. My family, friends, nurses, doctors, athletic trainers, and coaches have played vital roles in my life as I take on this journey of being a diabetic. I am forever thankful and grateful to have them in my corner.

Diabetes brings people together. It refines and teaches life lessons, creates opportunities, is a tool, and even though it is hard, it's a tremendous blessing. This is our second annual event “Hooping for Type 1 Diabetes” that will be taking place on January 3rd, 2025 at Pewaukee High School against West Allis Central High School at 7:00 pm. I am blessed to partner with Breakthrough T1D to help fund more research on diabetes, so there will be a cure one day. 

With this event, I hope to bring awareness and support to T1D, to help someone fight this disease, and to inspire those who have T1D, that you can still accomplish your dreams and goals. 

This is Anna Terrian and this is my story.