Ethan Wright’s journey with managing diabetes while excelling at soccer is nothing short of amazing.

Published: October 8, 2024

Ethan Wright takes any obstacle he faces in stride. His passion for playing soccer has only continued to grow since his Type 1 diabetes diagnosis, which has taught him even more about grit and determination — both on and off the soccer field.

Ethan, a 15-year-old student at the J. Graham Brown School in Louisville, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in 2023 after experiencing a sudden decline in his health and energy levels.

“We knew something was wrong, and we finally figured it out,” said his father, Eric.

Playing sports is still possible 
As soon as Ethan was admitted into the hospital, one of the first questions he asked was, “Can I continue to play sports?”

Ethan’s family met with Brad Thrasher, D.O., pediatric endocrinologist with Norton Children’s Endocrinology and director of the Christensen Family and Sports & Activity program. He reassured Ethan that his care team with Wendy Novak Diabetes Institute, a part of Norton Children’s Endocrinology, would work alongside the Christensen Family Sports & Activity Program to help keep Ethan active in his favorite sports activities. The program is a unique initiative designed to provide insights into blood glucose management and improving the health, safety and athletic performance of every child and young adult with diabetes, no matter their sport or activity.

Still, it was a stressful time for the family, knowing that Ethan’s lifestyle would change drastically due to his diagnosis. One of the nurses wrote a card to Ethan, with a personalized message that inspired him from that moment forward.

“She said, ‘Don’t let diabetes define who you are. We’ve got this. Norton Children’s has this. And we can make sure that you’re going to be able to perform at the highest level,’” Eric said. “That really reassured him.”

Ethan’s willpower was apparent early on.

“Ethan said, ‘I’m going to do this on my own. I’m going to give myself my own insulin. I’m going to figure this out,’” Eric recalled.

According to Eric, his son’s transformation from a confused, unhealthy 8th grader to a vibrant, healthy 9th grader was nothing short of miraculous. Ethan quickly embraced the challenge of managing his diabetes, refusing to let it define him. Instead, it became the fuel that drove him to excel in all areas of his life, especially on the soccer field.

Ethan’s latest athletic achievement happened in August 2024, when Louisville City FC signed him to a one-game contract, honoring him at halftime as Norton Children’s Superhero of the Game, which recognizes young patients who, despite significant obstacles, live life to the fullest.

Support from Wendy Novak Diabetes Institute

Ethan’s family credits his turnaround to the support of his care team at Wendy Novak Diabetes Institute and the Christensen Family Sports & Activity Program. From the moment of his diagnosis, the team provided Ethan with the tools and guidance he needed to manage his condition effectively. Ethan has learned to monitor his blood glucose levels, adjust his diet and exercise routine, and navigate the challenges that come with being an athlete with diabetes. All this has resulted in overall performance improvements in his strength, weight and motor skills.

“Ethan improved drastically from the first time I saw him,” said Amy Sketch, exercise physiologist in the Christensen Family and Sports & Activity program. “He was very involved in his appointments and came with great questions. He has a wonderful support system and is very positive about his diagnosis. Ethan is very motivated and competitive. He always strives to be better and far exceeds any goals set for him.”

Scoring goals with gratitude and inspiration

Ethan has found a way to balance his passion for playing soccer with the demands of managing his Type 1 diabetes. He remains focused on his goals, both in life and in sports. He hopes to inspire other kids, proving that with the right support and a positive attitude, anything is possible.

Eric is very proud of his son’s journey, and is endlessly grateful for the care team that has cheered Ethan on from the beginning. “Norton Children’s has helped us every step of this journey,” said Eric, who shared how when the family forgot to pack insulin when traveling, his providers called in a prescription right away at the family’s location.

The team remained very patient and thorough during Ethan’s insulin pump training, and has remained helpful and caring during any circumstance.

“They care about Ethan’s well-being,” Eric said. “They’ve been truly amazing.”