Spencer Bivens’ remarkable rise to Major League Baseball (MLB) serves as an inspiration not only for aspiring athletes but also for those living with Type 1 diabetes. The 30-year-old pitcher, who joined the San Francisco Giants as an undrafted free agent three years ago, has made an impressive impact on the field with a 3.14 ERA across 27 appearances in 2024. However, his story extends beyond baseball.
Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of 14, Bivens has spent much of his life learning to manage the chronic condition. Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disorder, requires individuals to regulate their blood sugar levels by administering insulin and adjusting their diet. Though the diagnosis initially felt overwhelming for Bivens, he soon adapted to the routine. “It was tough,” he recalled, “but once you get used to the change, it becomes easier.”
Bivens’ story aligns with that of fellow Giants pitcher, Jordan Hicks, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at 17. Known as the “Diabetic Phenom,” Hicks has embraced his condition and used it as a platform to demonstrate that diabetes doesn’t have to limit athletic success. Their shared experiences have fostered a close bond, as the two players often support one another both on and off the field. “We pick each other’s brains,” Hicks said. “It’s more like, ‘Hey, you got a needle for me?’ I got you.”
The Giants are uniquely equipped to support players with Type 1 diabetes, thanks in part to manager Bob Melvin’s personal connection to the condition. Melvin’s daughter, Alexi, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at 14, which has given him insight into the challenges his players face. He recognizes that managing diabetes on top of a grueling travel schedule requires extra resilience. “It’s just another facet that makes him a very appealing person,” Melvin said of Bivens. “He doesn’t talk about it much and just wants to do his thing, but it’s an incredible story.”
The Giants also benefit from the guidance of Dr. Shana Alexander, a Type 1 diabetic and the team’s sports psychologist. In her role as the director of mental health and wellness, Alexander has made it her mission to support fellow diabetics, offering advice and encouragement to players managing the condition. “As a Type 1 diabetic, it’s really nice to have support from somebody who lives it as well,” she said.
Alexander’s pride was evident when she witnessed three Type 1 diabetics—Bivens, Hicks, and Scott Alexander—take the mound during the same game in August 2024. She hopes to build a larger support network across MLB for players living with the condition. “It’s been really cool to see these guys be so open about it because these young kids can look up to them and recognize there aren’t limitations,” she explained.
Both Bivens and Hicks are actively involved with Beyond Type 1, a non-profit organization focused on providing educational resources and fostering a sense of community for those with Type 1 diabetes. Through their involvement, they aim to raise awareness and inspire others living with the condition. “I know how scary it was for me when I was a kid,” Bivens said. “So to be able to be out here with Hicks, it’s cool to be some sort of role model.”
By sharing their stories, Bivens and Hicks continue to demonstrate that with determination and support, living with Type 1 diabetes doesn’t have to stop anyone from pursuing their dreams.
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