Lauren's journey with diabetes began in 2007, at the age of nine, during a synchronized swimming camp in Calgary.
“I was with my mom, my older sister, and my twin sister, who does not live with type 1. I was losing weight, peeing lots, and couldn't seem to quench my thirst– the telltale signs, I'd come to find out. One of my friends who was also attending the swim camps mom was a nurse, thankfully, because she saw the signs and pretty much knew right away what we were dealing with. I spent three nights in the Calgary children's hospital. They fast-tracked my diabetes education to get my family and I on a plane home, to Newfoundland, three days later.”
The challenges of living with diabetes, particularly during her teenage years, weighed heavily on Lauren's self-confidence. Yet, amidst the struggle, her proudest moments emerged from her experiences with D-Camps. These programs became a cornerstone of her life, offering a community of support and invaluable skills for diabetes management.
Lauren reflects that D-Camps is where she learned that diabetes is not about perfection but about finding balance. Camp exposed her to various insulin therapies, allowing her to explore different options in a safe environment. Most importantly, they pushed her beyond her comfort zone, instilling confidence in managing her diabetes while fully engaging in camp activities.
Lauren's mission in modelling is twofold: to raise awareness about diabetes and to garner support for D-Camps that hold a special place in her heart. Having been a camper, leadership participant, and staff member spanning nearly a decade, these camps have profoundly shaped her life.
“My experience with D-Camps. I wouldn't be the person I am today without the community and the skills the camp programs have provided me.”
Please show your support by helping Lauren reach her fundraising goal and support sending more kids to D-Camps!
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