On November 23, 2024, Will Meisenheimer, a former Breakthrough T1D Youth Ambassador for the North Texas and Oklahoma Chapter and a true champion of type 1 diabetes (T1D), achieved an extraordinary milestone. At just 20 years old, he became the youngest person with T1D to complete the grueling 100-mile Dinosaur Valley Endurance Run, shattering misconceptions about the limitations imposed by T1D.

The race took place at Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose, Texas. Known for its challenging terrain, the course features rolling and sustained ascents and descents that test even the most seasoned runners. The event serves as a qualifier for the Western States Endurance Run for anyone who completes the 100-mile distance in under 35 hours. With only nine months of rigorous training, Will achieved this impressive feat.

Reflecting on his journey, Will shared his experiences and the obstacles he faced along the way. He recounted a pivotal moment early in his training:

“A week after I started running, on February 14, 2024, I found myself in the ER after T1D and running collided in the worst way. For the first time in a long time, I felt truly limited by this disease. All the doubts and warnings I’d heard over the years—about what I couldn’t do—came flooding back. Those frustrations built into a desire to prove to myself that I wasn’t defined by my diagnosis.”

This determination fueled Will’s relentless pursuit to overcome the perceived limitations of T1D. He continued:

“As a private person, this is a lot to share, but I figured if anyone in a similar situation could see this and take anything away from it, it would be worth it. Friendly reminder: write your own story. With the right mentality and group around you, anything is possible.”

Will’s journey was not one he took alone. The unwavering support of his friends, family, and especially his roommate, Zachary Nguyen, who inspired him to embark on this daunting challenge, was crucial to his success. He expressed his gratitude:

“A huge thank you to my roommate for inspiring me to take on this insane challenge in the first place, my friends, and my parents, for crewing and pacing me through the last 50 miles. I truly couldn’t have done this without y’all.”

Will’s dedicated crew of friends were by his side every step of the way, taking turns running long distances with him. Every ~10 miles, Will would come in to refill his running vest with snacks, water, and to check in. During the race, he managed his blood sugar levels using his closed-loop insulin delivery system with the OmniPod and Dexcom, a testament to the advanced technology available for T1D management. Will reminds us all that anything is possible with T1D.

Diagnosed with T1D in January 2015, Will is currently a sophomore in the Canfield Business Honors Program at the McCombs School of Business, University of Texas. His incredible journey from diagnosis to achieving this ultramarathon milestone is a powerful testament to resilience and determination. Will’s story is a shining example of how, with the right mindset and support, anything is possible—even for those living with T1D.

Let’s give a huge round of applause to Will Meisenheimer for his incredible accomplishment and for proving that no obstacle is insurmountable.

Zachary Nguyen and Will Meisenheimer early on in the race.

Will Meisenheimer and Zachary Nguyen in scenic Glen Rose, TX.

Zachary Nguyen throwing a “hook ’em” and Will Meisenheimer keeping the momentum going in good spirits.

Will with his friends coming down one of the many slopes featured in the Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose, TX.

Will and his supportive college friends, exhausted but triumphant, rest together after completing the grueling 100-mile race.