Mark Andrews, Baltimore Ravens tight end, is a true inspiration. Andrews has been a Type 1 diabetic all his life. He was diagnosed with diabetes when he was a child. Just after finishing warm-ups, the team was heading off the field in Chicago. A sign caught Mark Andrews’ attention.

The sign said “T1D” in purple. Not everybody knew what it stood for, but Andrews knew exactly what it meant. T1D is the short form of type 1 diabetes. A ten-year-old boy, Rhys Kinney, made and held the sign. This young man has also been suffering from type 1 diabetes. The tight end walked towards the boy and gave him a fist bump. Andrews then said to the boy, “Anything you want to do is possible.” 

Mark Andrews is a voice for young diabetics

Ever since being diagnosed with a chronic condition from such a young age, Andrews has made it his life’s mission to inspire all the young kids who suffer from the same illness. His message to the kids is, “Don’t let this disease define you.”

Mark Andrews never wanted to have a sob story. He never wanted to become a tight end with diabetes. His goal is to be the best tight end in the NFL, period, and that is the message Andrews wants to send out to others. He has received 22 touchdowns since 2019. It is the most touchdowns by any tight end. These touchdowns are a testament to Mark’s determination. His success on the football field can affect the lives of many around the world.

“Type 1 diabetes is a 24/7 fight, and for a young kid to see someone performing at the highest level, I think that’s encouraging,” said the tight end. “That’s a big moment.” 

Andrews’ letter to Rhys

The kid 10-year-old who held the T1D sign, Rhys Kinney, was diagnosed with diabetes at just 5. He lives about 30 miles away from Chicago. According to his father Brett, Kinney was in the hospital, and he was scared. The kid’s only question to his father was, will he ever play baseball again?

Brett and Rhys have reached out to the Ravens before. They also traveled to watch the Bears game. They received a letter from Mark Andrews. In the letter, Andrews explained to Rhys how diabetes is the reason he became the person he is today. According to Brett, this letter and Mark Andrews changed his son’s life.

Rhys and his father will always remember this experience. Mark Andrews is Rhys’ inspiration. Andrews wants this kid to achieve all his goals and become the best. 

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