Before joining Diabetes Canada in 2020 I didn't know a whole lot about it. 

I used to think it was mostly under control, and I believed the stigma that type 2 diabetes is the fault of those who get it, due to poor lifestyle or diet choices.

I couldn't have been more wrong.

Over 10% of Canadians have been diagnosed with diabetes. These are often just regular people living their lives, parents, siblings, children, friends and co-workers. And many of them have never told those around them they have it because of the stigma, contributing to depression and other mental health challenges.

Worse, diabetes remains the cause behind 30% of all strokes, 40% of all heart attacks, 50% of kidney failures, 70% of non-traumatic injury leg and foot amputations, and is the leading cause of blindness. All this is estimated to cost the health system over $30 billion a year, making it everyone's problem.

That's why I'm raising funds for diabetes research, education and care by participating in Lace for Diabetes this year... so that one day, all of us can live free of the effects of diabetes.

I hope you will join me!