Doctors rushed him to Syracuse’s Joslin Diabetes Center to monitor his blood sugar and educate him about Type 1 diabetes.
The diagnosis meant a lot of things to Eck.
It meant he’d have to research diabetes, and it’d be something he’d have to manage for the rest of his life. It meant he’d have to watch his diet constantly and learn about insulin injections and pumps.
But, perhaps most importantly to Eck, it didn’t mean the end of his lacrosse career.
“It was more, ‘How am I going to do it?’ not, ‘Can I do it?’ ’’ said Eck, 25, the midfielder/faceoff specialist for the Boston Cannons. “I’d bounced back from plenty of injuries before the diabetes, so it was just another thing I was going to deal with.’’
Three of Eck’s friends managed diabetes while playing sports during high school, so he knew it was possible. One friend wrestled, another played volleyball, and the third was on the lacrosse team with Eck.
“They all kind of gave me advice on what to eat, how to eat, when to monitor, and how to monitor, especially when playing sports,’’ Eck said. “Eventually, you figure it out. Everyone’s body is a little different. For me, it means pricking my finger, testing my blood sugar four or five times within the hour that I’m working out or playing.’’
That’s Eck’s routine before every game. He also monitors his blood sugar level each quarter. Afterward, he checks it at 15-to-30-minute intervals until he goes to bed. If his blood sugar level gets too low while he’s asleep, he could have a seizure or fall into a diabetic coma.
Dealing with diabetes has taught Eck how his body works and how he can perform at his highest level. Through the Cannons’ seven games this season, Eck has won 121 of 206 faceoffs, has 34 ground balls, and 3 assists.
Eck and eight of his teammates will compete in the All-Star Game tonight at 7 at Harvard Stadium. It’s Eck’s second consecutive selection, but this weekend has special meaning for him because it’s not just about lacrosse.
