Simone Donadello, Italy

Video interview with Simone
Watch the video interview with Simone telling about his life with diabetes and how he has learned to cope with the condition - access here (8:35 min.)

About Simone
Simone is an energetic 19-year-old who has found the ultimate adventure  through cycling. His cycling conquests are impressive, but so is his struggle with diabetes.

Diagnosed in 2004, Simone feared that he would no longer be able to pursue competitive level sports. But he says, “I soon found my rhythm again.” And as he discovered, he can optimize glucose control for peak performance.

Simone met fellow diabetic athletes last summer and this initial meeting led to the start of the first diabetic cycling team, C&D ’Cycling and Diabetes.’ “Apart from our passion for pedalling,” he says, “there is a strong desire to share our experiences to help other diabetics, and to have the courage to overcome our limits.”

Simone is now studying physics at university, but is still involved at diabetes-related events and planning sessions. Most recently, he attended a meeting to plan an event to be held at the World Diabetes Day at the National Museum of Science in Milan to include labs and discussions about youth diabetes.

Why he’s involved in DAWN Youth
Simone is committed to educating the public about diabetes and sharing his own experiences, and that’s why he is so enthusiastic about DAWN. He feels it is important to get the message out that diabetes is not just a clinical issue and cannot be solved solely through medicine. A variety of views is crucial, which is why DAWN Youth provides an excellent opportunity for dialogue and understanding.

Simone’s advice to others
“I have always tried to do my best to overcome challenges in life. I am totally committed to achieving my dreams and sport has helped me a lot. My message is that physical activity and an active style of living are the best prevention for illness.”