JDRF’s research is committed to improving the lives of over 300,000 Canadians, like Charlie, who face the daily challenges of living with type 1 diabetes (T1D). 

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month (NDAM) and we are asking you to consider a donation to JDRF to help fund research for new treatments, technologies and ultimately, a cure to ease the burden of every parent, child, and adult living with T1D.

"I often wonder why you chose me. Is it because I am so strong? Is it because you knew I would live my life to its fullest, in spite of you? Did you know I would use my voice to help the others, like me, that you chose? Why you chose me isn't important. What is important is that despite you, I am me and I love being me! We will learn everyday from you and one day we will live without you." - Charlie, diagnosed at age 3.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that make insulin.  It is not preventable and its cause is unknown. The prevalence of T1D is increasing at approximately 5% per year in Canada, higher than the global average.

People with T1D must take insulin via syringe or insulin pump in required doses in order to control glucose levels in their blood. This continuous glucose monitoring involves testing their blood sugar by pricking their finger(s) six or more times a day. Despite this constant attention, people with T1D still run the risk of dangerously high blood sugar levels, which can lead to complications, or dangerously low blood sugar levels, which can result in a coma.

While insulin injections or infusion allow a person with T1D to stay alive, they do not cure the disease, nor prevent long-term complications. Diabetes is the leading cause of amputations, blindness, kidney and heart disease, and other debilitating conditions.

JDRF Canada supports the local NS T1D community through our Community Engagement (CE) Program that includes the Bag of Hope offered to newly diagnosed families, the Talk T1D mentors program that support families and individuals across Nova Scotia, and the Youth Ambassadors, like Charlie and her mom Kate, that empower children with T1D to play a more active role in building awareness in their local community.

Thank you for considering a contribution to fund future breakthroughs in T1D treatment, prevention, and cure research that will improve the health and well-being of children, youth and their families with T1D.