Full-court preparation
Managing diabetes with help of UK’s Barnstable Brown Diabetes Center
HARRODSBURG
For recently graduated Mercer County High School student-athletes Braylon Ellis and Andrew Tatum—both consumer-members of Blue Grass Energy—basketball success is about more than talent and teamwork. It’s also about managing type 1 diabetes with vigilance.
Diagnosed at age 3 and 12 respectively, Braylon and Andrew have learned to navigate life with type 1 diabetes while excelling in their sport. Their routines include adjusting insulin levels, using glucose monitors and keeping snacks on hand to stay game-ready. “Keeping a close eye on my blood sugar is very important so that I stay safe and play at my optimal performance,” Braylon says.
Preparation is constant. “I try to keep my blood sugar at an optimum level when games begin,” Andrew says. With help from coaches, trainers and each other, they stay on top of their health.
Type 1 diabetes adds complexity to an already demanding time of life. “A person with type 1 diabetes makes nearly 200 more medical decisions daily,” says Leslie Scott, diabetes care and education specialist at the University of Kentucky’s Barnstable Brown Diabetes Center. Fellow nurse practitioner Debra Howard emphasizes the mental toll of balancing athletics and diabetes.
Despite the challenges, Braylon and Andrew support each other. “We know each other’s struggles and can help each other out,” Braylon says. Their bond has helped them thrive—not just manage.
Their care team at Barnstable Brown has been instrumental. “I don’t know where I would be without Barnstable Brown and my family,” says Braylon. Paula Tatum, Andrew’s mom, agrees. “The learning curve was steep, but the amazing providers made it manageable,” she says.
Advances in technology have also been crucial. Tools like continuous glucose monitors and insulin pumps help streamline care. “Braylon’s Dexcom gives him real-time tracking of his blood sugar, which is critical when he’s on the court,” Howard explains.
With high school now behind them, both athletes are looking ahead with the important lessons learned along the way. “Diabetes hasn’t stopped me,” Andrew says. “It’s part of who I am—but it doesn’t define me.”
HILLARY SMITH is a public relations officer at the University of Kentucky.
