Ruhina Bhalloo
"I'm fighting for greater awareness in my community, because South Asians have a high risk of developing type 2 diabetes," says Ruhina Bhalloo.
Ms. Bhalloo "lived with diabetes for 14 years without understanding the consequences and how to manage the disease," she reports. But that changed when she sought the help of a support group.
Her doctor insisted she use insulin, but she was afraid of the injections. Finally, she says, he suggested that she join the Canadian Diabetes Association's South Asian Support Group.
"I was reluctant, but the group was amazing – they helped me understand what diabetes was, the impact on my body over the long run, and the importance of self-management. They made me feel comfortable about using insulin.
"I was in denial and thought the medication I take was enough, but I am now much better informed about healthy eating."
As a result, Ms. Bhalloo's blood glucose (sugar) levels are well controlled, and she feels much more energetic. "I encourage all Canadians with diabetes to get help. With support and slight changes in lifestyle, we can overcome the disease."
| CHAMPION: GWEN STEEVES |
After years of struggling with stress eating, Gwen Steeves, a nurse in Moncton, N.B., signed up for a program that put her in touch with a health coach.
Through the Live Well! Bien Vivre! program, Ms. Steeves learned how to deal with stress, make healthier food choices and better manage her type 2 diabetes.
"I'm doing it for me," says Ms. Steeves. "Diabetes is chronic, so I need to manage it if I want to enjoy a good quality of life."
| CHAMPION: MICHELLE MACPHEE |
In Alberta, Michelle MacPhee is an active advocate for better access to care.
Her mother-in-law and her son Max, who is six, both have type 1 diabetes.
After launching a website, www.waltzingthedragon.ca, with information for families of children with diabetes, Ms. MacPhee began advocating for a publicly funded insulin pump program, complementing the campaign toward a full insulin pump program that the CDA began in 2011. Those efforts were successful, and in 2013 Alberta announced a full insulin pump program for all clinically eligible persons with type 1 diabetes. The province now covers the cost of an insulin pump (about $7,000) and supplies (about $500 a month) for qualified individuals.
"The finances were a barrier for some families, and we have friends for whom the program has made a real difference," says Ms. MacPhee.
| CHAMPION: TANYSS CHRISTIE |
Tanyss Christie of Chilliwack, B.C., was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a child, and one of her two daughters also has the disease. Disturbed to learn that the cost of her daughter's insulin pump would no longer be covered when she reaches 18, Ms. Christie has lobbied the B.C. government to make pumps available to all who need them and are clinically eligible. "At 18, most people are trying to go to school or get a job. It's such a shame that some people have to go back to a lesser level of care because the cost is out of reach."
Ms. Christie herself was given a loaner pump when she was first pregnant and needed the best control possible. "After three months, I bought my own, after the results showed the best blood glucose [sugar] control I'd ever had, making it possible to carry my healthy baby to full term, which was always a fear.
"I'm fighting for my daughter Avery, and all young children with diabetes, because they deserve a healthy and carefree future," says Ms. Christie.
To learn more about advocacy and how you can get involved, visit diabetes.ca, email info@diabetes.ca or call 1-800-BANTING (226-8464).