The San Diego-based company aims for the program to celebrate college athletes with diabetes. The company labeled it the first-ever NIL program designed to do so.
Dexcom also hopes it inspires those with diabetes to pursue athletic dreams of their own.
The company shared data highlighting the toll of diabetes on budding athletic talent. According to a news release, nearly half (43%) of adults with type 1 diabetes felt like quitting sports and physical activities because of their diagnosis. One in five (20%) followed through with quitting.
Partnering with ESPN insider
The company partnered with ESPN Senior NFL Insider and diabetes advocate Adam Schefter. Schefter’s wife, Sharri, lives with type 1 diabetes. The program offers 14 competitors a platform to share their story and receive mentorship and support.
“For many, having diabetes used to mean giving up on your hopes and dreams,” said Schefter. “I’ve had a front-row seat to diabetes since my wife Sharri was diagnosed in 2002, and I see the hurdles that people with diabetes overcome daily, but also how the advances in diabetes care, like Dexcom CGM, have unlocked a world of possibilities for her and many others.”
The athletes also rely on their Dexcom CGM to track glucose levels in real-time, helping to manage their diabetes.
Dexcom intends to share free educational resources for parents, teachers, coaches and fellow athletes as well. These resources help break down misconceptions about diabetes, the company said.
“Dexcom has always celebrated people with diabetes who push the limits and make a positive impact on their communities, which is why we saw the Supreme Court’s NIL decision as an opportunity to elevate these outstanding young athletes,” said Anne Santoro, VP, global customer experience at Dexcom. “The creation of Dexcom U is a testament to how our Warriors are breaking barriers and leading the way as role models for others with diabetes.”
