As I mentioned in my previous post, Tony has begun insulin therapy with his new system and seems to be pleased so far with the seemless transition, albeit a crash course in the ways of his new pump. All systems are a go…..

Right……

This is why Tony's story is so important. It tells all of our stories. As you read about the ins and outs of how he so seemingly deals with his diabetes and it's pervcieved challenges, you can see the determination on his face, you can imagine how excited his film crew must be, you can imagine what a laundry list of supplies that his is double checking to take a month long bike ride, when you or I might only require a bag of snacks and a replacement infusion set or back up test strips. Our friend has to carry it all,….on his person….the entire time….sans a few allocated replacement pieces and strips he is allowed to ship to various postal points along the route. Daunting. Incredibly intimidating for a parent of a child with diabetes to even think about, yet he effortlessly manages his care and the continuity of diabetes management on the road with the ease of a seasoned diabetic. I am envious.

Remember me referencing that little fact about how timing is everything….well, enter pesky timing…..

This week, Tony was informed that what seemed to be secured funding for the documentary film crew to travel with and complete filming was infact not happening, and this was a blow like no other. This presented an entire new list of complications for Tony that literally set him back and had him questioning his reasons for doing Tour Divide.

As the last few days have presented him with less than optimal circumstances only 96 hours from his departure from the country, his resolve is steady and he remains commited to ride Tour Divide. His motto……Keep Choppin'. This is a life lesson for any of us reading who might be unsure if the obstacles and the road ahead seem too difficult to pass….there is NOTHING that a person living with Type 1 Diabetes CANNOT do……nothing. There is meticulous planning, there are avenues proving more difficult to navigate than others, but there is nothing you cannot do if you believe.