Designing an Event for Diabetes
PHOTO [from left to right]: Beth Crowell (Team Diabetes participant); Debbie Travis; and Erin Pelerine (Community Engagement Coordinator, CDA)
Fredericton resident and business owner Beth Crowell can think of many reasons to support the Canadian Diabetes Association’s work. Along with her close friend’s son who was recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, Beth has a friend who was recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
“It made it seem more real for me that even at a later age, diabetes can affect us. Being proactive seems like the right thing to do,” says Beth.
Beth and her daughter Sarah are fundraising and training for the Rio de Janeiro event that takes place this month. “My daughter is another reason to get involved; she has a strong desire to help people and give back.”
As an entrepreneur and a member of several networking groups, Beth had the opportunity to job shadow well-known international TV personality, best-selling author and home collection designer Debbie Travis in Toronto last December. This opportunity led to the idea of creating a unique fundraising and awareness event that was built around Debbie Travis’ motto: Dream it. Do it. Live it.
This event provided an opportunity for Fredericton entrepreneurs to join Debbie Travis for an interactive session that included an introduction from the Premier of New Brunswick as well as an ‘interview session’ with Brad LeBlanc, a successful and local entrepreneur. She discussed life, balance, entrepreneurship and her life in Tuscany. The event wrapped up with a silent auction to support Beth’s fundraising goal.
“Since last month’s event I am happy to report that I now have a new Team Diabetes partner, Jerri, who has joined to go to Scotland next year,” explains Beth. “Jerri & I are already talking about doing a future marathon together in a couple of years. All in all it’s been a very positive experience for me. And the friends and contacts I have made over this journey I predict will be life-long friends.”
Learn more about Team Diabetes by visiting www.teamdiabetes.ca or find out how you can get involved with your own community awareness event by contacting a local office.