I think I am a Diabetes Champion because I have lost two people in my life because of diabetes. I have stayed up all night hearing moaning and crying. It was the most saddest thing in my life and I don’t want to hear moaning and crying from anyone else in my life or anyone else who has diabetes. I’m glad that this campaign, World Diabetes Day, is willing to take action for the people who have suffered enough from diabetes.

Harry Flint, living with type 2 diabetes for a decade , joined CDA’s Team Diabetes in 2005 .I met Harry the very first time at the Rome Marathon, 2006 and have crossed finish lines several more times with him . Harry has completed 20 events , 10 full and 10 half marathons . He has raised close to $ 80,000.00 for the Association . His goal is to reach at least $ 100,000.00 .Last time I saw him I noticed that he was able to keep ” his boyish figure ” . Harry is my Champion .

I, have a grand-daughter who is 11years old .She has had type1 diabetes for 7years now and I, think she is one of the bravest children I know. This year her school,Digby elementry is going to have the children wear blue in november to bring awarness to world diabetes day.

Gareth was diagnosed at 6 years old, and is now 12! He now uses an insulin pump and counts the carbs in everything he eats. He test his blood sugar every time he wants to eat. He is trying to be responsible and look after himself, and he is such a brave soul!!! He is my champion for life!!!!

Sarah was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes just two months ago. Turning 12 years old can be hard enough, let alone having diabetes to worry about. Sarah is my champion because everyday she handles this challenging time with such courage, patience and grace. I thank God everyday for Sarah, and for the discovery of insulin!

Oct 19th,2011 I decided to turn my life around. I started an exercise and diet routine. I eat more fruit and vegetables than normal. I try to keep the bulk of my intake to plant based foods. I aquafit 5 times a week and walk occasionally. I am only just over 3 weeks into it but have been able to reduce my insulin to almost nothing. My #s are almost perfect. I challenged myself on Facebook to lose 100 lbs. I am on my way. I feel great. I have a great support team including my friends a the The Diabetic Center at the Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital. I encourage all to seek out the Diabetic Center in their area for assistance. They are my professionals and so helpful. I love life and all it has to offer. I just want to be around for my fair share of it and my Grandchildren love their Grandma!

I am the mother of two chidren who were daignosed within a year of each other, (type 1) I call them both my Champions, they are both very good with their condition, dealing with it evey day as best possible. My son is on the pump, and my daughter has chosen to do injections every day. I can honestly say it is not easy, but they treat each day as any other normal child would, yet they have to make time for blood readings, insulin dosage and counting their carbs, again all in a day of trying to be normal. we are having a coffee morning here on Monday at our house for World Diabetes Day and people are coming to join us for a cup of coffee and cake, and will be donating to a good cause. we have printed information for people to read and explain to them the differnece in the two types of Diabetes, we will also offer to check their sugars, just so they can experience what a Diabetic does each day. I am very proud of my two children as at times I know it isnt easy, but they both know there are people worse off in life than they are. May Thanks Evelyn.

I have been LIVING with Type 1 Diabetes for 23 years! I have 2 beautiful children, an amazing husband and a dog. I am an avid runner, just completing my 9 th 1/2 marathon with a new PB of 1:40. I do all of these things while constantly monitoring my glucose and relying on my insulin pump to ensure a high quality of life. Diabetes is a challenge that I conquer daily with a positive attitude and the desire to be strong and healthy!

My father was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 1 years old in 1941. Through it all he has lived with dignity and grace for over 70 years with diabetes never letting it get him down or stop him from doing anything. He has been an inspiration and has helped my brother, myself and my son who are also Type 1 diabetes by giving us advice and support.

Thanks Dad!

In 2007 I developed gestational diabetes. After the birth of my daughter my 6 week check up was great and my blood sugars had returned to normal! Unfortunately, by September of 2008 the signs of diabetes had presented themselves again; extreme fatigue, nausea, weight loss. Exercise, diet restrictions and medication changes worked for short periods but the weight loss and fatigue continued. Not to mention the extreme thirst and frequent trips to the washroom through the night. In March of 2009 I was referred to an endocrinologist who told me I had type 1 diabetes and required insulin for life. Since then I have continued to keep those dietary changes and exercise practices in place. I feel so much better!

Each year my family and friends rally together and we participate in the JDRF Telus Walk for diabetes and each November I canvass in my neighborhood for the Canadian Diabetes Association. With the giving help of so many people, I believe research will find a cure for this widely known disease that is sadly misunderstood.

On November 14 we are wearing blue to show our awareness!