I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) at just eleven years old, and from the beginning, I learned how to manage a condition that would stay with me for life. Even so, I never let it stop me from being active. I played sports all the way through college, but I always assumed that long-distance endurance events were probably out of reach for someone with my condition. The unpredictability of blood sugar, the planning, the risks—endurance sports felt like something I couldn’t safely pursue, even if I wanted to.
Everything changed once I began using a continuous glucose monitor. For the first time, I had real-time awareness and control. It opened the door to possibilities I hadn’t seriously considered before. I was initially resistant to using a pump because I felt like it meant giving up control rather than gaining it. But in 2021, I finally made the switch to the Omnipod, and it completely changed not just my life, but my family’s life as well. The freedom, stability, and confidence it gave me became the foundation for a new chapter.
During COVID, I started training for endurance sports, something that once seemed unrealistic for me as a T1D. In 2023, I crossed the finish line of my first Ironman. Since then, I’ve completed the 2024 Boston Marathon, the 2024 NYC Marathon, and ten triathlon events. I’m currently training for Challenge Roth 140.6 in Germany in the summer of 2026—one of the most iconic long-course races in the world. None of this would’ve been possible without the support and expertise of the physicians I stay closely connected with at Mass General Brigham. Together, we’ve created a treatment plan that allows me to train, compete, and live the lifestyle I love.
Most importantly, I feel like I’m showing my kids what’s possible. I want them to grow up knowing that challenges don’t define you—you define how you show up to meet them. Hard work matters. Resilience matters. And dreams are worth pursuing, no matter how daunting they may seem.
This past fall, I raised money for Breakthrough T1D as part of my Ironman journey, finishing the Augusta, Georgia 70.3 Ironman event, and it was an incredibly meaningful experience. It was special to have my father, sister, and niece join me while my wife and kids were home cheering me on. I’m grateful for every colleague, friend, and family member who supported the cause.
-Kiernan Joyce
To learn more about Breakthrough T1D’s Run program, please contact Anna Lukes at alukes@bt1d.org or visit run.breakthrought1d.org.