From Diagnosis to Determination: Jacob Phillips is Running in the NYC Marathon with Type 1 Diabetes
Jacob Phillips’ story begins with a pivotal moment of reflection.
“I had been following Beyond Type 1 for a while,” he recalls. “I saw the application to be a part of the Beyond Type Run team, and it sparked the urge for challenge inside of me.”
Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2016 at the age of 22, Jacob had always been active before his diagnosis. However, the sudden change in his health brought uncertainty.
“Up until then, I was extremely active and athletic, but those first couple of years after being diagnosed, I was nervous to attempt anything I was capable of achieving before Type 1.”
But the desire to reclaim his athleticism never left.
Jacob decided that running his first marathon would be a statement, not just to himself but to the world.
“Running my first marathon is a battle between myself and T1D to show that I won’t let Type 1 win. It’s the start of gaining that control back.”
Managing Blood Sugar During Marathon Training
For Jacob, training for a marathon with type 1 diabetes presents unique challenges.
It’s not as simple as lacing up his running shoes and heading out the door. “Marathon training with Type 1 looks different every single day,” he explains. “Of course, I take into account a lot of things like meals, time of day, and weather, but I’ve found a decent routine that has helped me stay consistent. And that’s exactly what you need.”
Jacob has developed a system that works for him.
“Short, easy runs I can pretty much do at any time as long as my sugars are in range. Even if they’re high, a run that’s just a few miles helps bring my blood sugar level down to a nice place.”
However, long runs require more preparation
“For the long run, I make sure to eat some carbs before I take off. I load myself down with water, gels, gummies, and quick glucose options. Training this way is important because, come race day, this will be how things go for you.”
Overcoming Challenges of Balancing Physical Activity and Diabetes Management
The fear of hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, looms large for anyone with type 1 diabetes engaging in intense physical activity.
“The chance of going super low with any physical activity is always in the back of my mind,” Jacob admits.
Fortunately, technology like the Dexcom G7 continuous glucose monitor (CGM) has been a game changer for him.
“The Dexcom G7 keeps me aware of my levels at all times,” he says. “Obviously, it’s super inconvenient to have to closely keep an eye on your levels, but I would rather put in a little bit more work and be safe and healthy during these times.”
For Jacob, the Dexcom G7 played a critical role in helping him regain his confidence to stay active.
“Dexcom played a huge part in getting me back active again in those early years because it showed me I could still exercise and eat foods I enjoyed. I just added a new tool to monitor my levels.”
Advice for Aspiring Marathon Runners with Type 1 Diabetes
Jacob’s advice to other people with type 1 diabetes who want to take up long-distance running is both practical and encouraging.
“I would say it’s not sprint training, it’s marathon training,” he emphasizes. “Start out small and continue to work your way up with your training. Experiment with different variables and see what works best for you—whether it’s morning running vs. evening running, or running in a fasted state vs. running after a meal.”
He stresses the importance of patience and persistence.
“You have to dial in your own style of training, but it may take a few weeks to see what that looks like. The most important thing is that it’s possible. Don’t give up.”
Staying Motivated Despite the Challenges of Type 1 Diabetes
What drives Jacob to keep pushing forward, despite the inherent challenges of managing type 1 diabetes while training for a marathon?
“Looking ahead to achieving the goal is the focus,” he says.
Since being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, Jacob hasn’t done anything this physically demanding since then, and there are two key motivating factors that keep him going.
“First, proving to myself that I can continue to push myself to new limits and accomplish this marathon journey. Secondly, being an example to my two kids who see their dad live with Type 1 every day.”
For Jacob, it’s about more than just personal accomplishment—it’s about setting an example for his family.
“If this can show them that no matter your struggles, you can do hard things, then it’s worth every challenge.”
Future Goals and Continued Diabetes Management
Looking ahead, Jacob’s enthusiasm for running seems unstoppable.
“Running has been a great way to exercise my body and mind,” he says, adding with a laugh, “We’ll see after this marathon, but I think I’m hooked.”
In fact, Jacob already has his sights set on bigger goals. “It would be awesome to run all six major marathons one day.”
He remains optimistic about the role that diabetes technology will continue to play in his life.
“I do believe diabetes tech will continue to improve, and Dexcom will definitely lead the way in new ways and devices to make our lives easier and better. I don’t see a world where I stop using my Dexcom because of how much it has helped me over the years.”
Jacob’s journey from uncertainty to empowerment is a testament to his resilience.
His story serves as an inspiration not just to people with type 1 diabetes but to anyone facing challenges, proving that with the right mindset, support, and tools, even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome.
