USMNT vs Honduras VW Champ Player Honoree: Oscar
February 2nd 2022 Concacaf World Cup Qualifier – USMNT V. Honduras – St. Paul, MN
Oscar was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 5.
We visited his pediatrician after noticing he was extremely thirsty and needed to urinate frequently. He was admitted to Children’s Hospital on August 9, 2017. As a family we learned about insulin, how to carb count, and give injections. We learned about all the different factors that affect his blood sugar, and we all continue to learn. It is incurable, ever present, and life-long. There will be no breaks from managing diabetes in Oscar’s life.
Since his diagnosis, Oscar has participated in a monthly diabetes support group hosted by the Child Life Specialists at Children’s MN. He also participates in the JDRF OneWalk every year to raise money for the JDRF.
Oscar started playing soccer in our city’s recreational league in 2019 and was hooked. In 2020, he was invited to play in our local traveling soccer club (Dakota Soccer Club) and has been playing year-round since then. Soccer has been a great source of physical activity and a huge confidence booster. He enjoys the team spirit and is always encouraging other players.
In addition to soccer, Oscar cross-country skis in the Minnesota Youth Ski League. Oscar loves learning and is a voracious reader. His other interests include LEGOs, camping, fishing, and various outdoor activities. He has never let diabetes stop him from doing what he wants.