Diabetes,

Before I was twenty, Diabetes never crossed my mind. I was always on the smaller side, and everyone kept telling me the same things. Eat more, work out more, fill out your frame more. And yet, I was absolutely exhausted, both mentally and physically. I kept losing weight, my velocity was dropping, and I couldn't figure out what was going on. All I wanted to do was play baseball and get better, but something just wasn't right.

Finding out I had Type 1 diabetes was scary. I remember sitting in the hospital with my family, trying to understand what it all meant. I had so many questions, and honestly, I didn't know what my future would look like, both in baseball and in life. I kept asking myself why this was happening to me.

Once I started learning how to manage my glucose levels and use a continuous glucose monitor, things started to change. Being able to see my numbers and understand what was happening with my body gave me more confidence. It took time, and there was a lot to learn, but I started feeling stronger and more like myself again.

Managing Type 1 diabetes isn't always easy, and it's something I have to stay on top of every day. But I've learned that it doesn't have to stop me from doing what I love. I've been fortunate to have an incredible support system around me, especially my family, teammates, and coaches, who have helped me every step of the way.

One of the most rewarding parts of my journey has been meeting kids with Type 1 diabetes before games. We'll compare our sensors, talk about our experiences, and I always try to remind them that diabetes doesn't have to define who they are or what they're capable of accomplishing. There will be challenges along the way, but they should never feel embarrassed about having Type 1 diabetes or let it stop them from chasing their goals.

Looking back, I never would have imagined where this journey would take me. When I was diagnosed, I was a Division III pitcher who didn't know what the future held. Today, I'm a husband, a father, and a Major League pitcher.

Diabetes is still part of my life, and it always will be. But it doesn't define me, and it never will.

Best,

Mason