The AFL season has just begun and there are two exciting new names in the League this year, who also happen to be former patients and proud ‘alumni’ of the RCH Diabetes Service.
St Kilda’s Number One draft pick Paddy McCartin, 18, was diagnosed with type-one diabetes when he was nine years old. The disciplined key forward monitors his diabetes 15 or 16 times during AFL games, to ensure he is able to perform at his best.
Hugh Beasley, 20, is a key defender for the Brisbane lions. He also has type-one diabetes and uses an insulin pump to manage his blood glucose.
“I read my blood glucose levels at each quarter,” Hugh said. “I attach the pump at half time and check my basal temperature after that to monitor the levels.”
RCH Director of Diabetes Services Professor Fergus Cameron says that the hospital encourages all patients to exercise for the cardiorespiratory and psychosocial benefits, especially for those with diabetes.
“In terms of specific benefits to diabetes, exercise increases insulin sensitivity and thus can assist in metabolic control,” he said. “It’s not unusual for adolescents with type one diabetes to pursue elite sports. We find the numbers in our clinic of kids who play high-level sport are fairly indicative of the general community.”
Diet is one way that elite athletes can manage their diabetes and play the sports they love.
“We recommend a normal diet, as per dietary guidelines, for our patients,” Professor Cameron said. “Elite sports players can work with clinicians to create their own strategies to optimise blood glucose control before, during and after their sporting activity. These can be very idiosyncratic- depending on the nature of the activity and the individual person.”
Hugh worked with a sports dietician to help create a dietary plan that works for him.
“I always eat the same meals on game day,” he said. “And I keep to a precise routine with my meals.”
Both Paddy and Hugh were determined that diabetes wouldn’t stop them from perusing their AFL dreams.
Hugh’s message to young people with diabetes is to never give up.
“Don’t leave any stone unturned, there are always ways to manage diabetes. Believe in yourself, back yourself. You parents and clinicians will also provide the support you need,” Hugh said.
“I think it’s all about the messages patients receive about their diabetes,” Professor Cameron added. “At the RCH we are very strong on pushing that well-managed diabetes should not impede participation in sports at any level. The only exceptions are extreme sports where a momentary loss of judgement could lead to a life-threatening circumstance such as scuba diving or parachuting. These lads just underscore that what we say is borne out by what people achieve.”
Well done Hugh and Paddy!