In 2006, at just 11 years old, my world changed forever. A diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes wasn’t just a medical condition—it was a complete shift in what life meant for me and my family. Overnight, our routine was rewritten. We had to learn how to count carbs, adjust meals, and manage insulin injections. But perhaps the hardest part was explaining to my peers why I couldn’t always eat the same snacks they did, why I had to sit out certain activities, or why my energy levels fluctuated unpredictably.

And then, there was racing.

For as long as I could remember, the track had been my second home. The roar of the engine, the rush of speed—it was all I had ever dreamed about. But with my diagnosis, I was forced to step away, putting my racing career on pause to navigate this new reality. It felt like I was losing a part of myself.

But I wasn’t willing to give up.

After a year of learning how to manage my condition, I made my way back to the track. This time, it wasn’t just about speed—it was about discipline and balance. I had to learn how to manage my blood sugar in high-stress environments, adapt to unpredictable physical demands, and integrate insulin shots into a life of split-second decisions.

It wasn’t easy, but I refused to let Diabetes define me.

Through relentless effort, I went on to win four go-kart championships, proving to myself and the world that my condition wasn’t an obstacle—it was just another challenge to overcome. At 16, I signed with a professional Mazda team, and by 17, I was racing with BMW, competing in legendary events like the 24 Hours of Nürburgring in Germany.

The dream didn’t stop there.

In recent years, I’ve raced as a Lamborghini Junior Driver, competing in some of the most grueling endurance races in the world, like the 24 Hours of Spa. These races push athletes to their limits. For me, the challenge is even greater. Imagine finishing a two-hour stint in the car at 2 AM, heart pounding, muscles aching—and having to immediately check and regulate your blood sugar, all while preparing for the next run. Before technology caught up, this was even harder to manage. But thanks to advancements like the Dexcom Continuous Glucose Monitor, my team and I can now track my sugar levels in real-time, making it possible to adjust on the fly.

Diabetes may have changed my life, but it has never controlled it.

I share my story because I want others—especially those in the Diabetic community—to know that their dreams are still within reach. It takes effort. It takes adaptation. But it’s possible. If I can race at the highest level, pushing my body and mind to extremes, then so can anyone chasing their passion.

Because in the end, Diabetes doesn’t define you. Your determination does.