When I think of what a Diabetes Champion should embody, the first thing that comes to mind is my mother. From the moment I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of eighteen (almost 12 years ago), she has been my motivator, my nurse, my supporter, my personal researcher and so much more.

Her relentless reminders, questions and newspaper clippings, which at times aggravated me during my younger years, always helped me stay on-top of my health. She always remembered during times I wanted to forget.

I’m happy to say I am living a very well managed life with diabetes, and I owe it to her guidance, persistence and help all these years. I couldn’t have done it without her.