Kris Freeman: Diabetes Won't Keep Him From the Olympics

How Were You Diagnosed?

In September of 2000, not long after I joined the national team, I had a routine monthly blood test. My blood glucose level was twice the normal level. I was immediately referred to an endocrinologist. I was very reluctant to go see this specialist; I didn't know what diabetes was and I felt fine. But I did go, and within 5 minutes, the endocrinologist diagnosed me with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Did You Have Any Symptoms?

None that I recognized before the diagnosis. Before that blood test, I had been training hard every day and racing well, and I felt fine. But when the endocrinologist told me about the symptoms, I recognized that I had some of them. I was usually up several times a night to urinate, and my vision would get blurry after a high-carbohydrate meal.

What Was Your Reaction to the Diagnosis?

The doctor told me that I could "probably" continue to ski. I didn't like that word "probably" at all. I was pretty down for several months and somewhat in denial. But I did start treatment right away. Within a week, I was feeling better. My sleeping improved and I no longer had blurry vision after meals.

How Do You Manage Your Disease?

I take 3-5 doses of Humalog per day. That is a rapid-acting insulin that I can take right at mealtime. I also take one dose of NPH, a longer-acting insulin at night before going to bed. I am careful about my diet, but not overly strict. I can adjust the amount of insulin I inject at the time of a meal, so I can take more or less if I eat differently than normal.

Have You Had to Change Your Eating Habits?

As an athlete, I've always been pretty conscious of what I eat. I met with a dietitian when I was first diagnosed, and she thought I had a good handle on what I need to eat. I can usually look at my meals and estimate the amount of carbohydrates in them. Then I can determine how much insulin I'll need to take.

How Has Your Disease Affected Your Training and Competing?

Some doctors recommended that I take the season off, but neither my coaches nor I thought this was a good idea. I am on the same training schedule as before my diagnosis, and have been racing really well. I haven't had any low blood sugar problems or other side effects.

How Do You Manage Your Disease When Traveling With the National Team?

I have gone all over the world with the national team, and diabetes hasn't interfered with that. I just have to be flexible. The Humalog Pen that I use to inject my insulin is perfect. It's very portable, and I can take it just a few minutes before or after a meal, so I don't need to worry so much about eating at specified times. Also, since I can adjust the amount of insulin, I also don't have to worry about exactly what I'm eating.

I like to have some familiar foods with me, so I often bring energy bars when I travel; I know exactly what is in them (calories, carbohydrates, protein, etc.).

What Advice Would You Give to Other Athletes Who Are Diagnosed With Type 1 Diabetes?

Don't give up. You can still do what you want to do. It's certainly an inconvenience, but you just need to be flexible. With the modern treatments that are available, there's nothing that can stand in your way.

It took me a little time to find the right insulin dosages, but now, with my insulin, eating habits, and exercise routine, my hemoglobin A1C (a long-term measure of blood sugar levels) is within the normal, non-diabetic range.