Meet our T1D Champion, Colin Westby-Gibson! Colin was diagnosed with T1D at 4 years old. Read Colin’s story below!

“I was diagnosed with T1D around my 4th birthday, 6 years ago. Before my diagnosis I remember needing to drink a TON of water and crying for water because I was SO thirsty. I spent 2 nights in the hospital with my mom and dad. Having an IV in my arm was not fun. I also did not like getting shots. Some fun stuff about being in the hospital was that I got to drive a mini electric car down the hallway. My mom and dad took turns following me around with the IV cart. I also liked all of the toys, blankets and fun stuff I got from people who donated. It made me feel better.

What Colin Does in Spare Time – Having diabetes has helped me stay healthy and strong for sports and other activities. I love to play all types of sports like Football, Soccer, Basketball and GagaBall where I always want to be the best and win, but my favorite activity is NINJA WARRIOR. I have been on the team at Ninja Nation Huntersville for a year, where I am known as T1D Ninja. When I was at the 2023 Worlds Championship in Austin TX, the announcer while I was on a super difficult obstacle (which I completed!!) talked about my diabetes while I was running. He said even with having type 1 diabetes I didn’t give up.”