A father’s quest for a cure
At 18 Danny Goepel was a regular kid about to start university and take on the world. But life quickly changed when he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.
Danny’s diagnosis changed not only his own life, but his family’s. “It worried his mother like crazy,” says his father Rusty. “It’s hard to make those changes, especially when you are in your first year of University.”
Since that day, Rusty Goepel has been dedicated to doing all he can to support diabetes research to one day find a cure. Motivated by love for his son and a desire to make the future better for others living with diabetes, Rusty has been an advocate and fundraiser for diabetes for nearly 20 years.
Rusty’s efforts have truly helped to lead the fight against diabetes. In October 2003, he won an outstanding achievement award from the Association for his contributions and support. This year he chaired the successful Baubles for Banting Gala that took place in Vancouver. Rusty has also worked tirelessly to help the Canadian Diabetes Association raise funds for new research initiatives that will one day change the lives of people living with diabetes.
To anyone newly diagnosed Rusty shares words of encouragement, “It’s very scary when you first find out but the disease is understood and there is a great amount of support out there to help you cope.”
It is with the visionary support of donors and volunteer leaders like Rusty Goepel that the Canadian Diabetes Association is able to help people affected by diabetes. To hear more inspirational stories from people who are truly making a difference in the fight against diabetes, visit www.whatacuremeans2me.com.
To make your donation to the Canadian Diabetes Association, please visit www.diabetes.ca/donate