Saturday, November 14, 2026
For Lynbrook resident Jacob Podgorsky, crossing the finish line of the New York City Marathon on Nov. 1 was more than a personal achievement. It was proof that a life-changing diagnosis did not have to stand in the way of his goals.
Podgorsky, 32, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 28, completed his first full marathon in 5 hours and 13 minutes, raising approximately $6,600 for Breakthrough T1D, an organization supporting diabetes research and advocacy.
"It was a really magical day," Podgorsky said. "The crowd was amazing, giving out anything you can imagine, drinks, food, cheering random people on. The energy was just very infectious."
When the Herald first spoke with Podgorsky in June, he was preparing for the 26.2-mile challenge, hoping to raise $5,000 while inspiring others living with chronic health conditions.
Rather than following a strict running schedule, Podgorsky focused on staying active, walking approximately 10,000 steps daily and running when he felt physically prepared. His longest training run was about 15 miles.
Managing his diabetes added another layer of preparation. Podgorsky researched ways to maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the race, ultimately choosing an unconventional source of fuel: Sour Patch Kids.
Every mile, he ate approximately a handful of candy, supplemented with water and Gatorade. The strategy worked, allowing him to complete the race without experiencing significant blood sugar fluctuations.
"I just tried to make sure that I was healthy and my body was in shape to be able to run the 26 miles," he said.
Throughout the course, Podgorsky was energized by spectators cheering along the streets. At times, he turned off his music entirely, preferring to take in the atmosphere.
Another highlight was spotting his parents, Mitchell and Elizabeth, and older brother Eliot among the crowds in Manhattan, where Breakthrough T1D also had a cheering section.
His friend Kayla Rawlins, who watched him run around mile 17, said his determination was evident.
"When I went out to see him, it was around mile 17 and he had such a big smile on his face and he didn't look winded at all!" Rawlins said. "I was shocked, but it just shows how strong he is mentally and physically. I'm so proud of him and watching him was truly inspirational!"
Despite the physical demands of the race, Podgorsky said he never doubted his ability to finish.
"I never hit a wall," he said, adding that even as the miles began feeling longer, the excitement kept him moving.
Podgorsky surpassed his original $5,000 fundraising goal, contributing to what he said was more than $1 million raised collectively by the Breakthrough T1D marathon team.
For others facing similar health challenges, he hopes his accomplishment serves as encouragement to pursue their ambitions.
"You shouldn't let anything hold you back if you can physically do them," he said. "My body is capable of doing it, and I just put in the work."
Although he has no immediate plans for another marathon, Podgorsky said he would welcome the opportunity.
"This one was spectacular," he said.
