13 Questions with Beyond Type Run Marathoner Marie Diaz

Editor’s Note: Marie was a member of Beyond Type Run‘s 2018 TCS New York City Marathon Team sponsored by Dexcom and Insulet, makers of the tubeless Omnipod Insulin Management System. Learn more about the 2019 Beyond Type Run team here.

Meet Marie—person with type 1 diabetes (T1D) since 2000, running in her first Marathon and looking forward to exploring New York!

What inspired you to join the team?

I was inspired by the 2017 team, especially Jordan, Mary and Stephanie. The co-founders of Type One Run, James and Craig, also inspired me to take on my first marathon for Beyond Type 1.

What’s in your diabetes management toolkit?

I use Loop- a DIY open source artificial pancreas. It automates my insulin delivery using Dexcom and a Medtronic 723. Running has always been my favorite way to clear my head. A plant based diet, podcasts and good cold brews are essential to my holistic care!

I never go on a run without …

GU energy gels and my Apple Watch.

What is your favorite low snack on a run?

Black cherry Cliff blocks are actually delicious! A special low snack is the Maple flavored GU gel.

What is your pump it up running song?

“Body” by Loud Luxury is basically the song of the year. It’s been the soundtrack to my training.

What has been your most helpful tool as you’ve trained?

The community! I am blown away by the support, advice and joy I’ve received from all around the world.

What has been the biggest training hurdle?

The rain in Texas has been insanely difficult to plan around, yet the mental part of training is still the toughest. Our bodies are so capable, but training the mind is another feat itself!

What is your most embarrassing running moment?

I did see a huge snake in the water as I was crossing a bridge once, but thankfully nobody was around to hear my scream!

The injury I’m currently nursing is . . .

No injuries!!! So thankful.

If you could go on a run with any T1D hero who would it be?

Is this answer ever not Nick Jonas?

How do you treat yourself / recover after a long run?

I usually fix a little vegan meal in my OOFOS recovery shoes, drink UCAN electrolytes and get work done the rest of the day!

What are you most nervous about the day of the marathon?

The weather is a big one! Otherwise I am pretty excited!

How are you going to celebrate at the end of the race?

A warm shower, warm meal and mini-hibernation. Hoping to explore more of New York the next day!!

To learn more about the 2019 TCS New York City Marathon Beyond Type Run team click here.