Connections Through Sports
Caregivers Connect was so excited to welcome two GLUT1 moms to our talk in September. Debbie Stooddard and Erin Meisner both joined us to discuss getting connected with sports! Debbie and Erin both had many years of experience connecting and navigating various opportunities for their children in their communities and we were thrilled to learn tips and tricks from them.
Debbie, mom of Dalton, who was diagnosed at 5 and is now 29 and follows a ketogenic diet, spoke about his 20+ year involvement with sports. Dalton has participated in Special Olympics, Unified Sports, Martial Art Classes, Baseball Challenger, and many more, sometimes playing multiple sports at once. Debbie shared a link of suggestions for families that are interested in getting connected in their communities. This guide is a helpful list of resources for families who might not know where to begin!
Debbie shared that she believes getting involved in sports has helped Dalton become a more well-rounded individual. Through sports, he has been able to connect with his community, build friendships, and find a sense of belonging. Sports have also provided a fun way for him to stay active and support a healthy lifestyle.
Erin, mom of Millie, shared that her family was “not a sports family” and that they had always gravitated more toward the performing arts. That changed when they became connected with the sports community through opportunities that were a good fit for Millie. Programs such as Unified Sports, Special Olympics, Uplifting Athletes, and Team IMPACT have given Millie a sense of belonging and a place in her community. Being part of a team has helped build her confidence while giving her opportunities to connect with others and develop meaningful relationships.
For the Meisner family – including Millie who is 17 and on a ketogenic diet – being involved in these organizations is about so much more than physical health. It’s about building social skills, supporting mental well-being, developing confidence, and creating a strong sense of community and belonging.
Chris Shelsta, Physical Education Instructor and longtime Special Olympics coach, also shared recommendations for adapting activities to support participation and success.
Debbie, Erin, and Chris discussed the importance of hydration for individuals with GLUT1, particularly during physical activity. They discussed the importance of teaching the need for breaks and to understand that physical activity requires energy, not only from the physical demands of the sport, but also from the excitement and stimulation that come with participating. The group discussed important tips for engagements in sports, like teaching them to take breaks for endurance, because energy is spent in engaging in the sport, but also in the excitement of participating in the sport. They also recommended tools like spray bottles, cooling vests, cooling headbands for activities that are outside, and recognizing how heat impacts energy. Packing snacks and offering them often is also important for GLUT1 sports players.
The group encouraged families to build community connections and not be afraid to take that first leap into trying something new. Start small! The group recommended signing up for one local group or activity, or talking with your PT or OT about incorporating sports and physical activities into your child’s routine to help spark interest.
The biggest message was that getting started doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Every small step can open the door to new experiences, friendships, confidence, and opportunities for growth.
Many wonderful resources and ideas were shared throughout the group, and I’ve included a few of them below to help families get started!
- Special OlympicsÂ
- Baseball Challenger League
- Uplifting Athletes
- Team IMPACT
- Best Buddies (college, and e-buddies!)Â
- EGym trainer (Check local YMCA or Fitness Center)
- Fish for Life
- Adaptive Surfing and Water Skiing
- i9 sports
A special thank you to Debbie and Erin for putting together slides and resources and sharing so much helpful information with the group! And a huge thank you to all of the caregivers who shared their personal experiences, ideas, and tips throughout the discussion. Your willingness to share what has worked for your families helps make these conversations so valuable and supportive for everyone!
If you have any questions or want some help getting started, please reach out to me – Dana Pottschmidt, Program Director at the G1DF – and I will be happy to help you navigate resources.
