August 20, 2008
Oliphant Speaks to Diabetes Group
Methodist women's soccer player shares her story

FAYETTEVILLE, NC- Fifteen years ago, Methodist sophomore Lindsey Oliphant was diagnosed with Type I diabetes. For many, the diagnosis could shatter dreams, but Oliphant has spent the last 15 years accomplishing her goals, and most recently sharing her experience with other young people faced with Type I diabetes.

On Saturday, Aug. 16, Oliphant took a break from preseason soccer practice to speak at a Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation cookout. Families in and around Fayetteville met at Arnette Park to listen to Oliphant’s story. Those with diabetes ranged from two years old through high school all coming together for the event. Oliphant told the group about her diagnosis and how far she has come since that day.

“My main message is diabetes won’t stop me from doing anything,” Oliphant said. While attending high school in Jacksonville, Fla., her soccer coach advised her not to even attempt playing soccer in college due to the obstacles associated with diabetes.

“I proved him wrong!” Oliphant exclaimed after arriving for her second season with the Methodist women’s soccer team.

Tony Tommasi, head coach of the women’s soccer team had faith in Oliphant’s ability to play. “Once you meet and spend a little bit of time with Lindsey, you are convinced that there is nothing she cannot do!” Tommasi said. “Lindsey was very determined to achieve her goal of playing collegiate soccer, and I’m glad she chose to be a Monarch.”

When asked about the difficulty of adjusting to college soccer with diabetes, Oliphant acknowledged she works closely with the athletic training staff while testing her blood sugar more often to ensure she is healthy to play. “The team’s athletic trainer, Jennifer Cuchna, has been invaluable to easing the transition from high school to college,” Oliphant said.

Assisting Oliphant with her diabetes is just one of Cuchna’s responsibilities with the women’s soccer team, but she knows Oliphant is eager to perform to the best of her abilities. “She strives for excellence and is determined not to let diabetes get in the way of her life and dreams,” Cuchna said. “She overcame the challenge of adjusting her schedule from high school sports to the demanding atmosphere of collegiate athletics and education.”

Oliphant only hopes others facing diabetes can learn from her own story. “This was my first time speaking to a group, but I’ve always wanted to do it,” Oliphant said. “It is a great feeling to reach out to other kids with diabetes and encourage them to keep working toward their goals.”