Hi there, many might not know that I am a Type 1 Diabetic, have been since 1987. I was 28 years old and at the prime of my career as a musician. I had been  offered a job as a drummer with a band that was signed with EMI and was about to record an album. Of course I accepted! Then I got sick, very sick and was tested for everythimg except diabetes. I was losing weight rapidly and was drinking like a fish. The penny dropped and was rushed  to hospital to be stabilised. 2 months later I was back into the world and ready to continue my life. Sadly the drumming job was gone and to this day I do not know who the band was, not sure I want to. Life would become a battle and I would take on every bump head on, mostly on my own,  as many will tell you, it is a lonely existence trying to manage a chronic desease in a world that shows little empathy or knowledge.

Before music there was sport, my sibilings and I played many sports and besides rugby, cycling  was a secret passion of mine even as a spectator. All I wanted as a kid was a racing bike, never got one but I wonder if I had what direction life may have taken. Sporting carnivals in New Zealand were a regular thing for the Manaena families and besides the running and wood chopping there was the cycling races.

Fast forward to 2013 and I got my first racing bike,  a Trek Madone, light weight and a very sexy gun metal grey. I also discovered Team Novo Nordisk, a team of cyclists who were diabetics. This was inspirational for me so began the mutual journey of cycling and diabetes.

I had to give the cycling away after neck surgery  but continued to follow the journey of this team. New bike tech has arrived and may well get a more body friendly bike and reap the benefits both physically and mentally. Oh, and of course  the creative is back as well.

Check out this video on the team and please pass on this story and or the link to anyone that is dealing with something they didnt choose but may need some inspiration. Ask them what they need and you maybe surprised how little it is....maybe just a hug and shoulder for a moment, Ma9Na

https://youtu.be/9M6SSY2GDjc