Running Beyond Limits: Danica Collins’ Inspiring NYC Marathon Challenge with Type 1 Diabetes


 2024-10-31

Danica Collins not only prepared for one of the most challenging physical events of her life—the New York City Marathon—but she did so while managing type 1 diabetes.

Danica’s determination to push beyond her limits and advocate for the diabetes community shines brightly as she prepared for race day—using the Dexcom G7 continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to support her training.

Her mother, Regina Collins, also ran in support of Danica, making the experience even more meaningful.

Together, they are proving that living with diabetes doesn’t mean living with limits.

Pushing Boundaries: Danica’s Motivation to Run the NYC Marathon

When asked what inspired her to run the marathon, Danica shares a message of strength and resilience.

“I was inspired to do something that pushed me out of my comfort zone,” she explains.

For Danica, running the NYC Marathon—as part of Beyond Type 1’s Beyond Type Run team—is not just about completing a race—it’s about showing herself and others in the diabetes community that people with type 1 diabetes can do hard things.

Managing her condition has only deepened her self-awareness and strengthened her approach to training.

“Diabetes isn’t something I work around; it’s something I work with,” she says, highlighting how it has made her more mindful and proactive in all aspects of her life.

Her goal is clear: to demonstrate that type 1 diabetes doesn’t define or limit her.

It can, in fact, fuel her drive.

Balancing Marathon Training with Diabetes Management

Running a marathon is physically demanding for any athlete, but for someone with type 1 diabetes, it adds an additional layer of complexity.

Danica admits that balancing marathon preparation with her diabetes management has not been easy, especially when it comes to nutrition.

“Hitting my daily calorie and protein goals has been tough,” she says.

Running long distances requires substantial fuel, and Danica must carefully balance her food intake with her insulin management.

Unlike some runners who may train fasted, Danica has to ensure her blood sugar levels are stable before every run.

She also faces the challenge of carrying all the necessary diabetes supplies—like her insulin pump and CGM—while running long distances.

Despite these challenges, Danica remains determined.

“It’s all about adapting and showing up no matter what,” she emphasizes.

The Role of the Dexcom G7 in Marathon Training

Danica credits much of her successful training to the Dexcom G7, a continuous glucose monitoring system that tracks her glucose levels in real-time.

“The Dexcom G7 has been a game-changer,” Danica shares.

With this device, she can focus on her runs without constantly worrying about her blood sugar.

The CGM alerts her when her glucose levels are trending low or high, allowing her to take action before a situation becomes dangerous.

One particular moment during training stands out for Danica.

“I started out feeling great—my glucose was 127, so I had a banana and hit the road,” she recalls.

However, just 10 minutes into the run, her Dexcom alerted her that her glucose had dropped to 45.

Despite feeling fine at the time, Danica knew that the data from her CGM saved her from a potentially dangerous situation.

“Without that real-time data, I would’ve kept pushing and put myself at risk.”

This technology allows Danica to approach her training with more confidence, knowing she has a constant monitor to help her manage her diabetes while she focuses on her performance.

Nutrition and Insulin Management During Long Runs

Managing nutrition and insulin intake during long runs is a delicate balance for Danica.

Her strategy is to fuel up every 30 minutes with natural foods like honey, juice, and protein snacks.

“It’s all about being proactive and not waiting until I’m already low to take action,” she explains.

By staying ahead of any potential lows, Danica ensures she maintains her energy levels and avoids disruptions during her training runs.

Additionally, hydration is key, and Danica opts for electrolyte drinks with complex carbs to keep her energy steady throughout long runs.

Running as a Family: The Bond Between Danica and Her Mother, Regina

Danica’s marathon journey is made even more special by the support of her mother, Regina Collins, who will also be running in the marathon.

Regina, who has been running for years, says that running alongside Danica has been a unique and heartwarming experience.

“It’s been extra special to have someone to ‘talk running’ with,” Regina says.

Though they live miles apart, the pair has made it a point to train together at least once a month.

Their running styles may differ—Danica is taller and quicker, while Regina is more experienced—but they’ve learned to adjust to each other’s needs.

Regina shares how she has adapted her own running style to accommodate Danica’s diabetes management.

“I’ve built starting and stopping into my run in case her blood sugar falls low,” she explains.

Regina also emphasizes the importance of communication during their runs. They’ve discussed where Danica’s glucagon is in case of an emergency.

Regina also makes sure to carry extra snacks during their runs to help stabilize Danica’s blood sugar if needed.

Thriving with Diabetes: Danica’s Message to the Community

For Danica, running the NYC Marathon is not just a personal challenge—it’s an opportunity to inspire others in the diabetes community.

Her message is clear: “Thrive With It.”

She wants to show others that living with diabetes doesn’t mean living with limits.

“Diabetes doesn’t have to be an anchor that holds you down; it can be the thing that pushes you to be stronger, more disciplined, more in tune with yourself.”

Danica hopes that her journey will encourage others living with diabetes to pursue their goals and dreams, no matter how daunting they may seem.

Looking Ahead: Life After the Marathon

After the marathon, Danica’s mission doesn’t end.

She hopes to continue inspiring others, both in the diabetes community and beyond.

She plans to keep hosting meetups for the diabetes community and may even start organizing running meetups for others living with T1D.

“The journey doesn’t end with the marathon—it’s just the beginning,” she says.

As for Regina, her hopes are focused on continuing to support her daughter and raising awareness about diabetes.

“We’ll continue raising funds for research and awareness,” she says, expressing her commitment to the cause.

Together, Danica and Regina are proving that life with diabetes doesn’t have to be defined by limitations. Instead, it can be a journey of strength, resilience, and community.

HELP THE BEYOND TYPE RUN TEAM CROSS THE FINISH LINE.

On November 3, 2024 in New York City, the Beyond Type Run team will show the world what it looks like to live and thrive beyond diabetes. The marathon team plays a vita roles in awareness and fundraising efforts for Beyond Type 1, so please consider supporting our team by donating today.

Please donate if you can

 


This content was made possible by Dexcom, an active partner of Beyond Type 1.

Beyond Type 1 maintains editorial control over its content.

WRITTEN BY Daniel Trecroci, POSTED 10/31/24, UPDATED 11/03/24

Dan has written about diabetes for more than 20 years. He was one of Diabetes Health's first recruits, and throughout his 10 + years as Managing Editor he wrote/published thousands of articles and helped establish Diabetes Health as the premiere resource for people with diabetes. He later became the Content Manager for OneTouchGold—Johnson & Johnson/LifeScan’s official digital publication for its metering-technology customers. Under his leadership, OneTouchGold received the Web Marketing Association’s award for “Best Health & Wellness" web site. Dan has also written for the Diabetes Research Institute, dLife, diaTribe, Healthline, CareDx, Pendulum Therapeutics, and Hero Bread.