I am a Diabetes Champion because I work hard every day as a fundraiser to support research to help find a cure for diabetes and its complications.

I am a Diabetes Champion because I have immediate family members who manage their diabetes day and day out…and I am in awe of their dedication!

I am a Diabetes Champion because all people living with diabetes deserve a cure so their lives are not clouded with potential complications. Together we can find a cure!

I am a Diabetes Champion because my daughter Julia has been living with type 1 diabetes for 20 years. I have been a JDRF volunteer and now chair for 20 years. We are committed to funding a cure and improving quality of life for type 1 diabetics.

I am a Diabetes Champion because I believe in the work of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and their dedication to finding a cure for diabetes and its complications.

I am a Diabetes Champion because I get to work with the passionate and dedicated staff and volunteers at JDRF; working towards finding a cure for diabetes and its complications.

I have many people in my life with Diabetes. 25 years ago I was diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes and was told with the family history I have, there is a good chance that I would be an Insulin Dependant Diabetic in 10 years.

I am still not Diabetic and more in my family have become Diabetic since. I am very aware of the issues surrounding Diabetes as there are several family members, aunts, uncles, sisters, brother, nephew at various stages of Diabetes. As well as my husband was diagnosed over a year ago with Diabetes.

I feel with the warning I was given 25 years ago helped as I try to be cautious of how and what I eat as well as exercise somewhat. I do eat things I know I shouldn’t, but in small quantities. I try to walk or run at least 3 times a week. I am not overboard with the eating or exercising, but aware of what could happen if I wasn’t aware or understood.

I look Diabetes in the mirror or in a family member every single day. It really never leaves my mind. As well, my son is aware of the history and tries to be careful of what he eats and lives a healthy lifestyle.

There is a myth that Diabetes only hits every other generation. My family is living proff of this. WE have 4 generations so far and I would love nothing more than to see DIABETES CRUSHED FOR GOOD.

“I am a Diabetes Champion because I believe that I can make a difference in the lives of the more than 2.4 million Canadians living each day with this disease (and I am one of them).

Since being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes more than 6 years ago, I have experienced first-hand the impacts on my life and the lives of my family members. Watching, and listening to my adult children has opened my eyes to what happens in the lives of the people who are nothing more than supports of my health.

Whether it be though my involvement in advocacy, speaking to various audiences about diabetes, raising funds as a member/participant of the Team Diabetes program or simply having a casual conversation with people — letting them know what things are like, I feel I can spread a positive light on what could be perceived as a negative situation.”

“I am a Diabetes Champion because…

I believe that to conquer this disease we must win the battles within ourselves first. I tell myself that diabetes is only a part of me and that the whole of “me” is what really matters. I win my battles by setting goals to reach, putting a plan together and executing it to the best of my ability. Once I have learned something new about “me and Diabetes”, I go on to the next thing. It only ends when we have won.”

“Henry, my Brother, living with diabetes for 20 years, was my supporter in Rome 2006 at the Team Diabetes marathon, aka King Henry. Henry did participate in Kelowna 2008 and has signed up for Ottawa May 2010. Henry is busy raising awareness for World Diabetes Day at the senior Lodge, for the staff, where he volunteers. He received a letter from the Mayor of Guelph, offering greetings to Diabetes Champions, Volunteers and Donors, which he will read out. The Mayor acknowledges also the Association for their continued work for people with diabetes. There will be fundraising for the Canadian Diabetes Association, at the Lodge’s Fair. Henry is involved with his church. Gertrude, Henry’s wife is legally blind and requires help from him 24/7. He is my Hero, my Diabetes Champion.”