England Rugby Star Tackles Type 1 Diabetes to Reach Elite Level

In November 2025, England rugby center Henry Slade is sharing his story of balancing type 1 diabetes with elite sports. Slade discovered he had diabetes by accident at age 18, just a month before starting his professional career with the Exeter Chiefs.

While messing around with a friend's blood testing kit, Slade's result came back "pretty high," and the next day it was "even higher." His parents then took him to the doctor, who told him he was about to develop diabetes. Slade's first thought was, "Can I still play?" Fortunately, the doctor assured him that he could.

Slade has since made it his mission to raise awareness about type 1 diabetes and dispel the common misconception that it is linked to lifestyle. He wears a glucose monitoring device that constantly tracks his levels and alerts him to any spikes or drops. Slade carefully plans his insulin injections and carbohydrate intake to keep his blood sugar in the right zone, especially on match days when adrenaline can send it "through the roof."

Despite the challenges, Slade remains passionate about his sport and is determined not to let his condition hold him back. He wants to inspire others with type 1 diabetes to pursue their dreams, just as he has.