Dave Adrieansen

Diabetes Educator

My name is Dave Adrieansen and I am a registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator.  I work as a Diabetes Clinical Consultant with Medtronic MiniMed on the south side of Chicago.  I am 30 years old and was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 16.  I struggled with injections for 4 years before beginning insulin pump therapy which provided me with the control and freedom I was looking for.  I have been a Medtronic Minimed pumper for 10 years!  

Sports have been an important part of my life ever since I could remember.  While in high school, I wrestled and played baseball.  Other hobbies include playing tennis and cycling.  For the past 3 years I have been playing competitive fast pitch baseball in the Midwest Suburban League.  The positions I play are catcher and 3rd base; player profile and stats are located on my team website, www.eteamz.com/mslroyals  

I always wear my insulin pump during games. I use a leather case and secure the pump on my belt against the small of my back.   I decrease my basal rate by 25% 2 hours before and for the duration of the game.  I usually eat before a game and decrease my bolus by 50%.  I used to test my blood glucose 8-12 times during a 3 hour game, now I rely on continuous glucose monitoring to allow me to perform at my best and to make quick, smart decisions while in the game. 

Michelle Adams

Exercise Physiologist

Diagnosed with Type I diabetes at age 4, Michelle has utilized exercise as a tool for managing her diabetes throughout her life.  From playing softball and cheerleading as a child and teen, to competing in triathlons as an adult, Michelle is a firm believer that diabetic athletes can cross the finish line just as strong as their non-diabetic competitors. 

As an exercise physiologist, Michelle specializes in developing fitness programs for individuals with various chronic illnesses, and has special expertise in diabetes and exercise.  Michelle is the Fitness Director at Palos Health & Fitness Center, a medically based wellness center in Orland Park, IL, and is an instructor for the National Personal Training Institute in Chicago, IL.  She is a national speaker in diabetes and exercise, and has served as a coach for the Stroke, Spin, Stride diabetic athlete camp. 

Michelle enjoys traveling to places where she can participate in cycling, running, skiing and adventure racing.  She is a lifelong Cubs fan who likes spending her summers at Wrigley Field with family and friends, and enjoys cheering on her Alma Matter, the University of Illinois’ Fighting Illini!