Malaya's Journey: From Diabetes to OKC

Meet Malaya James. A 14 year old student 3 sport athlete who has played sports since 5 years old. During Covid at the age of 10, Malaya was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. She was heading to middle school after having an E-learning year, and on top of the stress of middle school and the unknowns, she was dealing with a whole new diagnosis that she was struggling to keep under control. She didn’t want people to know, she would purposely not insulin herself in front of people at school, and because of that, wouldn’t feel to good because of high/low blood sugars. Malaya was always at a game either in the gym or on the field, that was her comfort place. Where she can be herself. Her teammates and there families were the only ones who knew about her diabetes, so everyone would be on watch to make sure she needed snacks, water, her meds at all times. That community is the only people she was comfortable around. 7th and 8th grade she played varsity sports for the local high school. Absolutely dominated! Made all conference in volleyball ball and softball both years along with other honors. 8th grade year she caught her big break in softball. Led the state in 3 categories, and got noticed by a top club team. Her self esteem and confidence boosted! She now wants to go to college to hopefully play for a D1 school. She struggled with school because her focus was hard because of her high/low blood sugars, her mental health when it came to school took control over her and her grades were falling. Softball and this opportunity changed her mindset. We eventually were told by a fellow teammates parent that there was an all American team tryout happening and Malaya should attend. Dad took her to the 3 hour tryout and was told we would hear by the end of the week if she’s picked. They were taking 2 teams, 30 girls total. Malaya says she did ok but knew some catchers were better then her. Was ok but not confident she would make it. We got the call later in the week, SHE MADE IT! The guy running the tryout said “she has one of the best swings I’ve ever seen” welcome to the team see you in OKC! The trip isn’t cheap! If you know Malaya, or you don’t, you know how important this is to her! A chance to play in Devon park where the college world softball World Series was played would be a trip of a lifetime for her! We’re asking for help with expenses for the trip for her. Thank you for taking to time to read her story! The James family