SEBASTIEN SASSEVILLE “OUTRUNS” DIABETES: FOLLOW HIM ACROSS CANADA!

Sebastien Sasseville was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in 2002. In 2008, he became the first Canadian with Type 1 diabetes to reach the summit of Mount Everest.

On February 2nd 2014, he started a 7500 km solo run across Canada. That means 180 marathons in nine months! His objective: To inspire and empower people living with diabetes in Canada.

Credit: Outrun Diabetes

Runtastic chatted with Sebastien to learn more about this incredible journey.

Q: How did the idea to run across Canada come about?
A: I had just competed in the Sahara Race, a self-supported 155 miles ultramarathon when I thought about running across Canada. The race gave me confidence in my running abilities, I suppose. I was looking for a way to make a difference, but also wanted to do something that would give me an opportunity to connect with as many people as possible.

Q: Why are you using Runtastic for this project?
A: Runtastic is great for collecting and analyzing meaningful data! In this case, it will also be very useful to share our progression with people. The map in real time is my personal favorite!

Q: How did you train for this project?
A: I run a lot! Running across Canada isn’t about performance so my training has been focused on running longer distances at a slow and steady pace. Core strength is crucial. With a solid core, runners can either avoid, delay or reduce the severity of injuries.

Q: Tell us more about your disease and how you deal with it in your everyday life.
A: I live with Type 1 diabetes, which means that my pancreas stopped functioning (at the age of 22). I now have to wear an insulin pump, test my blood glucose up to 10-15 times a day and balance insulin, carbs and exercise. It requires a lot of discipline, but with a positive attitude it is no obstacle.

Q: Why is doing sports and staying active so important to you?
A: Sport is important to me because it makes all aspects of my life better. Other than the obvious health reasons, exercise keeps my personal & professional lives balanced, it helps reduce my stress levels and gives me more energy. It’s also been a great personal growth vehicle and taught me a lot of important life lessons.

Credit: Outrun Diabetis

Want to support Sebastien during this incredible challenge with Runtastic?
https://www.runtastic.com/en/users/sebastien-sasseville

To learn more about the project: http://www.outrundiabetes.ca/home.html

We wish Sebastien all the best for this challenge!

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