Do you know how to Chagi, Jireugi and Makki? Erin Blackburn does. This year, she took her kicking, punching, and blocking to a new level in Taekwondo. After years of practicing, Erin and her husband Ryan, 12-year-old daughter Ava, and 9-year-old son Ender earned their black belts in January.
Although the hours spent training were an excellent way to bring the family together (sin any cell phones) the practice has also given her tools to help make impactful strides in diabetes management.
As the newest member of the Translational Research Institute team, Erin, a nurse practitioner with over 12 years of experience in endocrinology, says the discipline of Taekwondo aligns with her approach to patient care and helps her to empower her patients in managing diabetes.
"When I started Taekwondo, I didn't think I'd end up with a black belt. It's a reminder not to sell yourself short. Take a chance, get out there, and you might accomplish more than you think,"
A native Floridian, Erin is both a Seminole and a Knight. She was born in Tallahassee, attended Florida State and eventually getting her undergraduate degree and her master's from the University of Central Florida. While initially spending some time in primary care, she found her true calling in endocrinology, particularly diabetes care. Erin thrives on seeing positive changes in her patients. She finds fulfillment in helping them understand ways to improve their health, whether through lifestyle changes, medications, or innovative technologies.
Recently joining TRI, Erin is excited about the opportunity to work at the forefront of diabetes research and witness the implementation of new technologies and medications and is thrilled to be part of an institute driving innovation in diabetes care.
Erin's story is one of dedication, passion, and the belief that everyone has the potential to achieve more than they initially think. In the arena of diabetes care, Erin is not just a practitioner; she's a black belt ninja, using her skills to help patients navigate their health journey. Her story is an inspiring fusion of kicking stereotypes and punching through the challenges of diabetes, proving that with dedication and a dash of humor, one can excel at whatever they put their mind to. So, whether it's a perfectly executed Taekwondo move or a precisely managed blood sugar level, Erin Blackburn is the ninja you want on your team.
To find out more about Erin’s Essential insights and top tips for thriving with Diabetes, click here.
**And just in case you were wondering, where does Erin's heart reside? UCF or FSU? She confesses, "I'm a Florida State fan, but maybe don't tell anybody,"
