My sister Jillian is a social worker in Roddickton, Newfoundland, and, a Diabetes Champion. In September of 2008 she was diagnosed with Type II Diabetes. At first it was very difficult news to handle. We were also dealing with the fact that our grandmother and I (her brother) were living with heart conditions, our grandfather diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and our mother diagnosed with Parkinson’s.

With her strong attitude she vowed not to let her condition slow her down. Along with her medication she decided to regain control of her weight. In only one year she had lost 76 pounds and was still working to lose more.

While here in New Brunswick, I too am helping with the fight. Creating a new charity known as P.H.A.D. (Parkinson’s, Heart Defects, Alzheimer’s, Diabetes). Using Jillian’s experiences and my organizational skills and outlets, we have gathered sponsors and lectures to inform the public on each diagnosis, the organizations which work to solve them, ad to raise funds to support them.

Jillian is an inspiration as she is constantly showing that having Diabetes doesn’t mean that your life needs to stop. She is still currently working full-time as social worker, and enjoys several activities on a regular basis. She is also active in her community as she is attempting to organize fundraisers for Diabetes research.