In this episode, Dr. Steve Edelman and Dr. Jeremy Pettus speak with former NBA player Gary Forbes, one of only three NBA athletes with type 1 diabetes. Gary shares his powerful story of being diagnosed with diabetes during college, overcoming misdiagnoses, and achieving his dream of playing professional basketball despite the challenges of living with diabetes. He provides invaluable insights into the importance of mindset, perseverance, and building a support system while navigating life as an athlete with type 1 diabetes. Gary also discusses his passion project, The Soul Survivors comic series, which empowers children with chronic health challenges through superhero storytelling. This episode is an inspiring must-listen for anyone facing diabetes or other health challenges.

Key Topics:

• How did Gary navigate his initial misdiagnosis and eventual correct diagnosis with type 1 diabetes?
• What challenges did he face balancing intense NBA-level athletics and diabetes management?
• How can setting a routine, like consistent workouts or meal plans, improve diabetes control?
• What role does a strong support system, including coaches and teammates, play in managing diabetes?
• Why is having the right healthcare team critical for thriving with diabetes, especially in high-pressure environments?
• How does Gary's comic series, The Soul Survivors, inspire children with chronic health challenges to see themselves as superheroes?
• What mindset shifts helped Gary overcome adversity and maintain an optimistic outlook on life?

Gary is a T1D former professional NBA basketball player, having played for the Rockets, Nuggets, Toronto Raptors, and Brooklyn Nets. He is also the founder and publisher of The Sole Survivors, a comic book series that empowers children facing chronic health challenges.  

Follow Gary on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garyforbes_/ 

Discover his comic book series: https://www.instagram.com/thesolesurvivors/

Visit Website: www.thesolesurvivors.com

Visit TCOYD's Website for more diabetes edutainment for people living with diabetes: https://tcoyd.org/

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